In the last month, three companies have recalled their products because of lead contamination. It is especially concerning, as these fruit puree pouches are commonly consumed by young children. These include:
- Wanabana,
- Schnucks, and
- Weis branded apple cinnamon fruit purees. (Washington Post)
To learn more about the Wanabana recall, read our recent article.
Recorded Cases of Lead Poisoning
Cases of lead poisoning in children have been occurring nationwide, with seven serious and adverse cases recorded in:
- Arkansas,
- Louisiana,
- Maryland,
- Missouri, and
- North Carolina
Why Are the Fruit Purees Contaminated with Lead?
While the October recall didn’t specify how the contamination occurred, the latest recall blames the cinnamon raw material. Cinnamon can naturally contain a variety of toxins including:
- coumarin, a liver toxin and potential carcinogen, and
- heavy metals – such as lead, cadmium, and arsenic
Usually, these toxins are present at low levels, however those levels can still pose a danger to young children. It is important that children who have been exposed to these products be tested. Some states require universal lead screening for children, and those states include:
- Washington D.C
- Connecticut,
- Delaware,
- Iowa,
- Louisiana,
- Maryland,
- Massachusetts,
- New Jersey,
- New York,
- Rhode Island, and
- Vermont
Symptoms of Lead Poisoning in Children
Even if your state doesn’t require lead testing, it is important that all children who have consumed the above-mentioned products be tested for lead poisoning. Symptoms are mild, and include:
- Developmental delay
- Learning difficulties
- Irritability
- Loss of appetite
- Weight loss
- Sluggishness and fatigue
- Abdominal pain
- Vomiting
- Constipation
- Hearing loss
- Seizures
- Eating things, such as paint chips, that aren’t food (pica)
What Happens if Your Child Tests Positive for Lead Poisoning?
Reach out to our product liability attorneys who are aggressively investigating these claims. David B. Rheingold, one of our lead attorneys in the Wanabana lead litigation, can help you navigate the litigation process.