No one should have to worry the snacks they are feeding their child will cause them harm. When parents place their trust in food for their children, they expect that is safe for them to consume. Sadly, this is not always the case.
WanaBana, Schnucks, and Weis brand cinnamon applesauce and apple cinnamon purée pouches, pictured above, have all been recalled after high lead levels were found in the food. Even minimal exposure to lead can have long-lasting negative effects.
Lead Exposure
Lead poisoning occurs when high levels of lead build up in the body, causing negative health effects. Most children have no obvious symptoms, so if it is suspected that a child was exposed to lead, they should receive medical attention. There is no safe amount of lead exposure in children.
Short-term exposure to lead could result in the following symptoms:
- Headache
- Abdominal pain/Colic
- Vomiting
- Anemia
Long-term exposure could result in additional symptoms:
- Irritability
- Lethargy
- Fatigue
- Muscle aches or muscle prickling/burning
- Occasional abdominal discomfort
- Constipation
- Difficulty concentrating/Muscular exhaustibility
- Headache
- Tremor
- Weight loss
In severe cases, lead poisoning can lead to seizures, coma, and even death.
Children are particularly vulnerable, and exposure can result in:
- Developmental delays
- Damage Cognitive Development
- Lower IQ
- Learning difficulties
- Behavioral problems
Known Exposures
As of December 8, 2023, the FDA has recorded 65 cases across 27 states: AL (1), AR (1), CA (1), CT (1), FL (1), GA (2), IA (1), IL (3), KY (3), LA (4), MA (3), MD (6), MI (3), MO (1), NC (5), NE (2), NH (1), NM (1), NY (8), OH (3), PA (1), SC (2), TN (1), TX(3), VA(2), WA (3), WI (1), Unknown (1)
This is a widespread issue. Due to the shelf length of the product, it is important to clean out your pantry and throw out all recalled cinnamon-flavored fruit puree pouches as soon as possible to prevent any more lead exposure.
What to Do Now
If you or a loved one has consumed a WanaBana fruit pouch and are experiencing symptoms of lead poisoning, please seek immediate medical attention. The FDA has advised that parents and caregivers of young children who have consumed WanaBana apple cinnamon puree pouches should contact their child’s healthcare provider about receiving a blood test to determine lead levels.
OnderLaw is working to help families who have experienced the negative impact of lead exposure seek justice. No one should have to worry the snack they are feeding their child will cause them harm. If you are a loved one have consumed a WanaBana Fruit pouch and experienced symptoms of lead poisoning, please reach out to OnderLaw to start your case today.
