Lead Contamination in Applesauce: Intentional Act Suspected, FDA Investigates

Federal health officials are investigating whether cinnamon applesauce pouches linked to high blood lead levels among children in 22 states, including Illinois, were intentionally contaminated. The Food and Drug Administration is focusing its investigation on an Austrofood plant in Ecuador, where the now-recalled applesauce brands were made. The FDA suspects an intentional act in the supply chain and is working to identify the source. Lead poisoning is extremely dangerous, especially for young children, and can cause long-term damage to the brain and nervous system.