Baby Applesauce Poisoned with Lead
Only parental vigilance will protect children
In the latest US food scandal, children in 44 states ate applesauce that contained dangerous levels of lead. According to the CDC, more than 400 children were poisoned from lead in recalled cinnamon applesauce pouches. The poisoned children have median blood lead levels six times greater than those seen during the height of the Flint Water crisis. In addition to lead, the CDC also found high levels of chromium in the recalled applesauce pouch products.
On October 28, 2023, the FDA issued a safety alert because a North Carolina health department investigation found elevated blood lead levels in four children who had eaten cinnamon applesauce pouches. By November 9, 2023, Wanabana USA, the distributor of WanaBaba products in the US, had voluntarily recalled the following products:
- WanaBana apple cinnamon fruit puree pouches — including three packs. Sold nationally through multiple retailers, including Amazon, Dollar Tree, Family Dollar/Dollar Tree combination stores, and other online outlets.
- Schnucks-brand cinnamon-flavored applesauce pouches and variety pack. Sold at Schnucks and Eatwell Markets grocery stores.
- Weis-brand cinnamon applesauce pouches. Sold at Weis grocery stores.
