Public Health Alert Issued As Products Recalled For Risk Of Elevated Lead Levels

CONNECTICUT — Several applesauce products are being recalled across the country due to the risk of elevated blood lead levels, according to the Connecticut Department of Public Health (DPH).

The products include WanaBana Apple Cinnamon Fruit Puree pouches, Schnucks brand Cinnamon flavored Applesauce pouches and Weis brand Cinnamon Applesauce pouches.

“Consumers are advised to discard these items immediately and contact a healthcare provider if they or a family member consumed the tainted products or are showing symptoms, Manisha Juthani, MD., Connecticut Department of Public Health Commissioner, said.

The voluntary recall comes after four children in North Carolina who consumed one of the affected pouches showed signs of lead poisoning, according to the Connecticut DPH.

The investigation by North Carolina health officials led to the discovery of extremely high lead concentrations in WanaBana Apple Cinnamon Fruit Puree, according to the Connecticut DPH.

United States Food and Drug Administration officials said eating the contaminated products could result in “acute toxicity.” Parents and caregivers should not buy or serve the cinnamon applesauce products, which are sold through multiple retailers, including Amazon and Dollar Tree.

The FDA issued a public health alert regarding the WanaBana brand snacks sold through national and online retailers, including Sam’s Club, Amazon and Dollar Tree. The recall has expanded to include the Schnucks and Weis brand apple puree pouches. The Schnucks items are sold at Schnucks and Eatwell Markets, while the Weis products can be found at Weis grocery stores.

“It is critical to check your home for these products, which could be harmful if consumed,” Bryan T. Cafferelli, Connecticut Department of Consumer Protection Commissioner, said.

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Connecticut DPH said if your child or children have eaten the cinnamon applesauce, DPH recommends discussing this with the child’s medical provider. The DPH also notes that all children should be tested at least annually between nine and 35 months to make sure the child is not exposed to lead.

Consumers can contact WanaBana at support@wanabanafruits.com, the Schnucks Customer Care team at 314-994-4400 or 1-800-264-4400, or the Weis Customer Service number at 866-999-9347.For more information on the childhood lead program at DPH, please visit the program’s website. Connecticut residents can also contact their local health department if they have questions on lead poisoning prevention.