Possible Intentional Contamination of Applesauce Pouches with Lead Raises Concerns
TL;DR
The FDA is investigating whether lead poisoning in children may be linked to cinnamon added to popular applesauce pouches. The investigation is focused on determining if lead was added to the cinnamon along the global supply chain. A national recall of three million pouches of cinnamon applesauce made in Ecuador was announced in November. The case highlights a gap in FDA food oversight, as there is no federal requirement to test for lead in food. The levels of lead in children's blood are often the first indication of lead in food, and the FDA has not set enforceable limits for lead in food or spices.
- Lead Levels in Children's Applesauce May Be Traced to Cinnamon Additive The New York Times
- Lead contamination in applesauce pouches may have been intentional, FDA says NBC News
- Applesauce pouches may have been contaminated on purpose, FDA foods chief says POLITICO
- Cinnamon apple sauce pouches recalled due to elevated lead levels CBS Boston
- Applesauce contaminated with lead may have been result of cutting corners: Officials Good Morning America
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