FDA Urgently Recalls Snack Sold in Louisiana, Texas After Lead and Chromium Poisoning Outbreak

Louisiana and Texas are two of the 44 states where a product recall is in effect after reports of children becoming ill after consumption.

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The FDA identified high levels of chromium and lead in cinnamon samples that are used in popular applesauce sold in stores in the following states:

AL, AR, AZ, CA, CO, CT, FL, GA, IA, ID, IL, IN, KS, KY, LA, MA, ME, MI, MN, MO, MS, MT, NC, ND, NE, NH, NJ, NM, NY, OH, OK, OR, PA, RI, SC, SD, TN, TX, UT, VA, VT, WA, WI, WV, (plus Washington D.C. and Puerto Rico)

Where is the recalled product sold?

The Food and Drug Administration sent a warning letter that WanaBana apple puree products remained on store shelves in Dollar Tree stores two months after a recall was issued.

Negasmart, the distributor of WanaBana apple products, was placed under multiple import alerts to ensure that any products imported would be flagged by the FDA and prevented from reaching customers.

Children in 44 States Affected

The CDC reported that there are a total of 519 cases in 44 different states. The investigation is active and so far they have confirmed 136 cases.

Health officials say that anyone who has consumed the recalled products should consult a health provider immediately. The CDC warns that the product may still be in consumers' homes since the product has a long shelf life. Consumers are urged to check their pantry or refrigerator for the recalled product to avoid illness.

Symptoms of lead exposure, according to the CDC

Children with lead exposure may have no apparent acute symptoms. However, even low levels of lead have been associated with learning and behavior problems, hearing and speech problems, and slowed growth and development.

This can show up as lower IQ, decreased ability to pay attention, and underperformance in school. Children who are exposed to large amounts of lead may develop symptoms of acute lead poisoning, including

• Abdominal pain, constipation, and nausea
• Anemia
• Weakness and fatigue
• Severe neurological symptoms (including seizures, encephalopathy, and coma)

What Consumers With The Recalled Product Should Do:

Do not consume the recalled apple cinnamon fruit puree pouches. Throw them away or bring them back to the store they were purchased from.

If the product was consumed at any point, contact your healthcare provider and ask about getting a blood test for lead.