FDA Investigates Applesauce Products for Elevated Lead Levels

Late last year, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) published new information following a previously posted safety alert concerning applesauce pouches that could contain elevated lead levels. The update added additional brands of apple puree and applesauce products that the agency recommends people do not eat, sell, or serve.

The product contamination concerns began after the FDA, along with the North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services (NCDHHS) and the North Carolina Department of Agriculture & Consumer Services (NCDA&CS) investigated reports of four children with elevated blood lead levels, indicating potential acute lead toxicity. The NCDHHS investigation identified one brand of apple puree pouches as a potential shared source of exposure. As part of their investigation, NCDHHS analyzed multiple lots of the product, detecting extremely high concentrations of lead. A recall notice for that brand was announced followed by two other brands of cinnamon-flavored apple products.

According to the FDA:

Lead is toxic to humans and can affect people of any age or health status. Protecting children from exposure to lead is particularly important because they are more susceptible to lead toxicity. Most children have no obvious immediate symptoms. Parents and caretakers should consult a healthcare provider if you suspect a child may have been exposed to lead. Short term exposure to lead could result in the following symptoms: headache; abdominal pain/colic; vomiting; anemia. Longer term exposure could result in the following additional symptoms: irritability; lethargy; fatigue; muscle aches or muscle prickling/burning; constipation; difficulty concentrating/muscular weakness; tremor; weight loss.

“Consuming foods or liquids with elevated levels of lead or other toxic heavy metals can cause serious health concerns,” said Joe Frasca, Senior Vice President of Marketing at EMSL Analytical, Inc. “To help ensure that products are safe for consumers, the scientists at EMSL are available to assist food growers, processors, manufacturers, and importers with independent third-party testing. Our food testing experts can analyze raw ingredients, production surfaces, and final food products for heavy metals, pesticides, and microbial contaminants. We also offer a wide range of other food-related testing services, such as shelf-life studies and food labeling.”

To learn more about food and beverage testing services, please visit www.FoodTestingLab.com or www.EMSL.com, call (800) 220-3675 or email info@EMSL.com .

About EMSL Analytical, Inc.

EMSL Analytical is one of the leading testing laboratories with locations throughout the United States and Canada. EMSL is a nationally recognized and locally focused provider specializing in fast laboratory results for mold, bacteria, Legionella, USP 797, pathogens, asbestos, lead, soot, char & ash from fires, VOCs, odors, radon, formaldehyde, indoor air quality, microbiology, environmental, industrial hygiene, radiological, food, beverage & consumer products and material testing services for the identification of unknown substances. EMSL services both professionals and the general public. EMSL maintains an extensive list of accreditations from leading organizations as well as state and federal regulating bodies including, but not limited to A2LA, AIHA LAP, LLC. (AIHA EMLAP, AIHA IHLAP, AIHA ELLAP), NVLAP, CDC ELITE, CPSC, CA ELAP, NY ELAP, TX DOH, NJDEP and multiple other state accrediting agencies. Please visit our website at www.EMSL.com for a complete listing of accreditations. In addition, EMSL carries a wide range of Sampling Equipment and Investigative Products for environmental professionals.

Contact Information

Joseph Frasca

Senior Vice President of Marketing

EMSL Analytical, Inc.

(1) 856-303-2503

Contact via E-mail