Title: FDA Recalls Cinnamon-Infused Fruit Puree Due to Dangerous Levels of Lead
In a startling revelation, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has discovered dangerously high levels of lead in a sample of cinnamon used in the recalled WanaBana apple cinnamon fruit puree. These lead levels were found to be more than 2,000 times higher than the proposed safety limits. This discovery has prompted an investigation and subsequent recall by the FDA.
The gravity of the situation becomes more apparent as at least 69 cases of lead poisoning in children across the country have been reported to the FDA. This influx of cases urged the FDA to dig deeper into the issue, leading to the discovery of lead contamination.
Originally, the recall encompassed WanaBana apple cinnamon fruit puree pouches. However, it soon expanded to include Schnucks applesauce pouches with cinnamon and Weis cinnamon applesauce. The FDA believes that the common ingredient, cinnamon, used in these products is the likely source of lead contamination.
Testing conducted on cinnamon samples revealed alarmingly high levels of lead, with one sample exceeding proposed safety standards by an astonishing 2,000 times. The affected applesauce pouches are produced in a facility in Ecuador, known as Austrofoods, while the cinnamon is sourced from another supplier called Negasmart.
It is disconcerting to note that the U.S. currently lacks comprehensive limits on lead levels in food, and the FDA’s proposed limits are not expected to be finalized until 2025. This makes it all the more important for timely action to be taken to address this potential health hazard.
Fortunately, the FDA does not suspect that WanaBana products without cinnamon are at risk of lead contamination. Nonetheless, the concern over lead in their products continues, as two additional WanaBana items, a mango passionfruit banana smoothie and an organic mango puree, have also tested positive for elevated lead levels.
The FDA suspects that the contamination may be a result of “food fraud,” where cheaper ingredients are added to a product without disclosure. To address these concerns, WanaBana is actively cooperating with the FDA during the ongoing investigation. They have also displayed goodwill by announcing plans to reimburse affected parents for healthcare visits and blood testing related to lead poisoning.
With the recall underway and the investigation in full swing, it is crucial for consumers to stay informed and cautious when purchasing similar products. The FDA continues to work diligently to ensure the safety and well-being of individuals, particularly young children who are more vulnerable to the harmful effects of lead exposure.
