Investigation of Elevated Lead Levels in Applesauce Pouches - Update Dic 19

United States

The FDA published an update on the investigation of multiple brands of apple cinnamon fruit pouches due to Elevated Lead Levels. As of December 19, 2023, FDA has received 69 complaints/adverse events reported from several states: AL (1), AR (1), CA (1), CT (1), FL (1), GA (2), IA (1), IL (3), KY (3), LA (4), MA (3), MD (6), MI (3), MO (1), NC (5), NE (2), NH (1), NM (1), NY (8), OH (3), PA (1), SC (2), TN (1), TX (3), VA (2), WA (3), WI (2), WV (1), Unknown (3), mainly affecting children under 6. Report Date Ranges: October 17, 2023 – December 14, 2023.

Following a series of complaints, an investigation was launched to determine the cause of the sicknesses. Laboratories found a common link among the victims – elevated blood lead levels. This led the investigating team to the Austrofoods facility in Ecuador, where affected products were sourced. A lead contamination was detected in the cinnamon used in the production of apple cinnamon fruit puree pouches under the WanaBana, Schnucks, and Weis brands. While the products were distributed nationwide, additional recalled items reportedly reached markets in Cuba and the United Arab Emirates.

The affected products are:
- WanaBana apple cinnamon fruit puree pouches. They were sold nationally and are available through multiple retailers including Amazon, Dollar Tree, and other online outlets.
- Schnuck brand cinnamon-flavored applesauce pouches and variety pack. They were sold at Schnucks and Eatwell Markets grocery stores.
- Weis brand cinnamon applesauce pouches (i.e., specific lots of UPC 041497216123). They were sold at Weis grocery stores.

The CDC's National Center for Environmental Health is working with state and local health departments to identify cases related to the consumption of recalled WanaBana, Schnucks, or Weis brand fruit puree products. The CDC's case definition includes a blood lead level of 3.5 µg/dL or higher measured within 3 months after consuming the recalled products. As of December 15, the CDC has received reports of 67 confirmed cases, 122 probable cases, and 16 suspected cases, totaling 205 cases from 33 states. It's important to note that the CDC and FDA use different data sources, and the reported counts may not directly match. Additionally, some individuals may be reflected in both agencies' numbers, so the figures should not be combined.

Upon discovering the lead contamination, immediate actions were taken to prevent further illnesses. The primary cause was traced back to Negasmart, an Ecuador-based ground cinnamon supplier to Austrofoods. Notably, however, Negasmart was found not to distribute any products directly to the United States. In response to the situation, WanaBana voluntarily recalled all Apple Cinnamon Fruit Puree Pouches, regardless of expiration date or lot code. Schnucks and Weis incorporated similar measures for certain cinnamon-flavored applesauce pouches.

The FDA, working collaboratively with Ecuadorian officials and health authorities, continues to monitor the situation closely while maintaining ongoing checks for imported cinnamon from certain countries. In the meantime, consumers are urged to avoid purchasing or consuming the recalled fruit puree products.

If you or your child are experiencing symptoms after eating this product it is important to report it. It can help to detect & resolve outbreaks early and prevent others from being harmed, and it enables better surveillance. If symptoms persist seek medical attention.

Source: www.fda.gov/food/outbreaks-foodborne-illness/investigation-elevated-lead-levels-cinnamon-applesauce-pouches-november-2023