United States
The FDA is advising parents and caregivers against purchasing or feeding WanaBana apple cinnamon fruit puree pouches to toddlers and children due to potential high lead content. As an immediate precautionary measure, WanaBana is voluntarily recalling all batches and expiration dates of this product. These products were sold Nationwide in the US and are available through multiple retailers including Sam’s Club, Amazon and Dollar Tree. The FDA warning comes after a North Carolina investigation linked 4 cases of heightened blood lead levels in children to the WanaBana pouches.
As part of their investigation, Testing by NCDHHS of multiple lots of WanaBana apple cinnamon fruit puree revealed alarmingly high concentrations of lead. Following the NCDHHS's findings, the FDA concurred that results at this level could lead to acute toxicity and immediately commenced a public health alert.
Lead exposure can be detrimental to health, potentially resulting in a range of symptoms from headaches and abdominal pain to anemia. Long-term contact can cause further complications such as irritability, lethargy, muscle aches, and difficulty concentrating. While most children show no clear immediate symptoms, the FDA advises caregivers who suspect exposure to consult a healthcare provider for a blood test.
In case you experience harm from this product, it is important to report it. It can help to detect & resolve issues and prevent others from being harmed, and it enables better surveillance. If symptoms persist, seek medical care.
Source:
www.fda.gov