In response to an increasing number of reported illnesses in children associated with applesauce products, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has issued an expanded alert, revealing that two additional companies are recalling their products due to elevated levels of lead. The affected products include:
Recalled WanaBana apple cinnamon fruit puree pouches
Recalled Schnucks brand cinnamon-flavored applesauce pouches and variety pack
Recalled Weis brand cinnamon applesauce pouches (specific lots of UPC 041497216123)
These products, distributed nationwide, have various lot codes and expiration dates.
The reported onset dates of illnesses in affected children range from October 17 to November 1, with cases identified in Arkansas, Louisiana, Maryland, Missouri, and North Carolina.
Retailers and Distribution:
WanaBana: Sold nationally, available at retailers such as Sam’s Club, Amazon, Dollar Tree, and other online outlets.
Schnucks: Available at Schnucks and Eatwell Markets grocery stores.
Weis: Sold at Weis grocery stores.
Consumers are strongly advised not to consume these products, as lead exposure is toxic to individuals of any age or health status. Children are particularly vulnerable to lead toxicity, making immediate action crucial.
The FDA emphasizes that these products have a long shelf life, urging consumers to check their homes and promptly discard any recalled items. As lead exposure may not manifest immediate symptoms, vigilance is paramount.
Symptoms of Lead Toxicity:
Short-term exposure may result in symptoms such as headache, abdominal pain, vomiting, and anemia. Long-term exposure can lead to irritability, lethargy, muscle aches, concentration difficulties, and more severe consequences like learning disabilities and brain damage in children.
FDA Investigation:
The FDA, in collaboration with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and state and local partners, is actively investigating the source of lead contamination. The initial safety alert, issued on October 28, was prompted by reports of four children with elevated blood lead levels, indicating potential acute lead toxicity. The investigation identified WanaBana Apple Cinnamon Fruit Puree pouches as a potential source of exposure, with subsequent analysis revealing extremely high lead concentrations.
Since the initial alert, the investigation has been transferred to the FDA’s Coordinated Outbreak Response & Evaluation (CORE) Network, with three additional children reported ill, bringing the total to four.
Consumers are strongly urged to reach out to their healthcare providers if exposure is suspected, and to promptly seek a blood test for affected children. The FDA continues to work diligently to address this public health concern and ensure the safety of consumers.
