The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has recalled these brands of cinnamon apple puree and applesauce products because they may contain elevated levels of lead:
- WanaBana-brand apple cinnamon fruit puree pouches, individual and three-packs
- Schnucks-brand cinnamon-flavored applesauce pouches and variety packs
- Weis-brand cinnamon applesauce pouches
Do not buy or eat these brands. If you or your children have eaten these brands, talk to your doctor about lead testing and any other health questions you may have.
If you have these brands in your home, destroy the pouches. Carefully open the pouch, empty the contents into a trash can, discard the packaging, clean up any spills, and then wash your hands.
If your child is found to have an elevated blood lead level, the Erie County Department of Health staff may contact you to gather and provide more information.
Importance of testing
Lead is toxic to people of any age but children 5 years old and younger are most at risk. Exposure to lead can damage the brain and nervous system, which may cause slowed growth and development, learning and behavior problems, and hearing and speech problems. Lead exposure in children can be difficult to see because most children have no obvious immediate symptoms. Some symptoms are headache, stomachache, vomiting and weakness.
For more information about lead poisoning, call the Pennsylvania Department of Health Lead Information Line at 1-800-440-5323.
