Investigation of Elevated Lead Levels in Applesauce Pouches - Update Jan 02

United States

The FDA and CDC published an update on the investigation of multiple brands of apple cinnamon fruit pouches due to Elevated Lead Levels.

As of January 2, 2024, The FDA has received 82 confirmed complaints/reports of adverse events potentially linked to the recalled products, no new cases have been reported since December 26, 2023

As of December 29, 2023, the CDC has received reports of 80 confirmed cases, 187 probable cases, and 20 suspected cases for a total of 287 cases from from state and local health departments from 37 states (AL, AR, CA, CO, FL, GA, IA, ID, IL, IN, KS, KY, LA, ME, MI, MN, MO, MS, MT, NC, ND, NE, NH, NJ, NM, NY, OH, OK, OR, PA, RI, TN, TX, VA, WA, WI, WV).

The CDC categorizes individuals based on blood lead levels and testing methods after consuming a recalled product:

Suspect Case: Blood lead level of 3.5 μg/dL or higher through capillary testing (pending venous confirmation).
Probable Case: Blood lead level of 3.5 μg/dL or higher through confirmed venous testing. Conditions: Lacks follow-up assessment or results indicate other lead exposure sources.
Confirmed Case: Blood lead level of 3.5 μg/dL or higher through venous testing within three months. Requires a follow-up assessment ruling out other likely lead exposure sources

CDC and FDA have different data sources, so the counts reported by each agency will not directly correspond. In addition, some people who were affected by the contaminated product might be reflected in both the numbers reported by the FDA and the numbers reported by CDC, so the numbers should not be added together.

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.

Children exposed to lead may not show immediate symptoms, but even low levels of exposure can lead to long-term issues. This includes learning and behavior problems, speech difficulties, and slowed growth. Effects may manifest as lower IQ, reduced attention span, and academic underperformance. In cases of significant exposure, children may experience acute lead poisoning symptoms such as abdominal pain, constipation, nausea, anemia, weakness, fatigue, and severe neurological issues like seizures or coma.

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