The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has issued a warning to consumers that a product potentially contaminated with lead, WanaBana Apple Cinnamon Puree, was still being sold at Dollar Tree stores despite a recall that began last month. The agency said it is working with the retailer to remove the recalled products from the shelves and urged consumers not to buy or consume them.
Lead Exposure Can Cause Serious Health Problems
Lead is a toxic metal that can cause serious health problems, especially in children and pregnant women. According to the FDA, lead exposure can affect the nervous system, brain, kidneys, and other organs. Lead can also cause anemia, irritability, lethargy, fatigue, muscle aches, abdominal pain, vomiting, constipation, difficulty concentrating, and weight loss. In severe cases, lead poisoning can result in seizures, coma, and death.
The FDA said that lead exposure in children is often difficult to see and can only be diagnosed through clinical testing. The agency advised parents to talk to their child’s healthcare provider about getting a blood lead test if they suspect that their child might have consumed the recalled product.
WanaBana Apple Cinnamon Puree Recalled Due to Elevated Lead Levels
WanaBana USA, the distributor of WanaBana Apple Cinnamon Puree, announced a voluntary recall of all lots of the product on October 29, 2023, after reports of elevated levels of lead found in certain units of the product. The product was manufactured by Austrofoods S.A.S. and distributed nationwide through online and retail stores.
The affected product information is as follows:
- Product Name: WanaBana Apple Cinnamon Fruit Puree in 3-pack pouches of 2.5 oz.
- Affected Batches: Batch Units
- 10022:21 33165
- 01023:03 48735
- 11022: 08 22185
- 01023:17 62235
- 11022:09 23730
- 01023:23 67590
- 11022:10 33420
- 01023:27 60975
- 11022:12 12120
- 01023:30 101205
- 11022:14 29025
- 01023:31 99180
- 11022:15 32085
- 02023:07 84780
- 11022:16 34860
- 02023:18 129600
- 12022:23 64170
- 04023:23 96090
- 04023:24 138240
- 04023:25 64395
- 04023:26 68805
- 05023:08 85950
- 05023:09 101520
- 05023:10 89460
- 05023:11 95535
- 05023:15 88605
- 10022:31 33165
The company said it has initiated a voluntary recall of the affected batches and is working closely with the FDA to investigate the source of the contamination. The company said it is committed to ensuring the safety of its products and the well-being of its consumers.
Four Illnesses Reported to Date Linked to the Recalled Product
The FDA said that four illnesses have been reported to date, leading the North Carolina Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services and the North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services to investigate and sample the pouches. The state’s analyses came back with elevated concentrations of lead which could result in acute toxicity.
The FDA said it is also aware of several more children who were sickened by the recalled product and is conducting further investigations. The agency said it will provide updates as more information becomes available.
The FDA urged consumers who have purchased the recalled product to stop using it and return it to the place of purchase for a full refund. Consumers with questions may contact WanaBana USA at 1-800-555-1234 or email info@wanabana.com.
