JEFFERSON CITY, Mo. — The Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services is urging parents to throw away recalled cinnamon applesauce pouches after five child lead poisoning cases were reported in the state.
The FDA announced a nationwide recall of certain applesauce pouches due to elevated levels of lead found in the products. U.S. inspectors later found "extremely high" levels of lead in cinnamon at a plant in Ecuador that made the pouches.
As of Dec. 19, the FDA reported 69 complaints of adverse events linked to the recall, and all of those affected were children under 6 years old.
The following products were included in the recall:
- WanaBana apple cinnamon fruit puree pouches – including 3-pack – sold nationally and are available through retailers including Amazon, Dollar Tree and other online outlets.
- Schnucks-brand cinnamon-flavored applesauce pouches and variety packs sold at Schnucks and Eatwell Markets grocery stores.
- Weis-brand cinnamon applesauce pouches sold at Weis grocery stores.
DHSS and local health departments are working to ensure the recalled products are not available for sale in Missouri, according to state the department. In the meantime, parents and caregivers should:
- Look for and dispose of the recalled pouches.
- Empty the pouches into the trash to prevent others from consuming them.
- Call a physician or local public health agency if you or your child have consumed the recalled products to discuss having blood lead levels tested. Click here to find your closest public health agency.
According to DHSS, lead is toxic to humans. Children under 6 and pregnant women are at the highest risk for severe lead poisoning illness.
Short-term exposure to high concentrations of lead could lead to short-term symptoms such as headaches, abdominal pain, vomiting and anemia, according to the state department. Most children don't show obvious immediate symptoms. Long-term symptoms can include irritability, fatigue, muscle aches, constipation, brain fog, tremors, weight loss, behavioral issues and lowered IQ.
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