Safety Advisory: Recall Issued for Cinnamon Apple Fruit Pouches Over Lead Concerns

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) recently issued an advisory regarding particular apple cinnamon fruit pouches due to concerns over elevated lead levels. This ongoing investigation raises important safety concerns for consumers, especially parents and caretakers of young children, who are more susceptible to lead toxicity.

The recall affects multiple brands of cinnamon apple puree and applesauce products. Information on lot codes and UPCs can be found in the respective firms' recall announcements. The recalled products include:

• WanaBana apple cinnamon fruit puree pouches
• Schnucks-brand cinnamon-flavored applesauce pouches and variety pack
• Weis-brand cinnamon applesauce pouches

Lead is a toxic substance that can harm people of all ages and health statuses, with children being particularly vulnerable. Protecting children from lead exposure is crucial, as they might not exhibit immediate symptoms.

However, short-term exposure to lead can result in symptoms like headache, abdominal pain/colic, vomiting, and anemia. Longer-term exposure may lead to additional symptoms, including irritability, lethargy, fatigue, muscle aches, constipation, difficulty concentrating, tremors, and weight loss.

The recalled WanaBana apple cinnamon fruit puree pouches are sold nationally and are available through various retailers, including Amazon, Dollar Tree, and other online outlets. Notably, the FDA knows that recalled WanaBana Apple Cinnamon Puree is still on the shelves at several Dollar Tree stores in multiple states. Consumers are strongly advised not to purchase this product.

Schnucks-brand cinnamon-flavored applesauce pouches and variety packs are sold at Schnucks and Eatwell Markets grocery stores, while Weis-brand cinnamon applesauce pouches are available at Weis grocery stores.

As of November 22, 2023, the FDA, in collaboration with the CDC and state and local partners, is actively investigating reports of elevated blood lead levels in individuals who reported exposure to Apple Cinnamon Fruit Puree pouches manufactured in Ecuador and sold under WanaBana, Weis, and Schnucks brands.

There have been 52 reports of adverse events potentially linked to the recalled product submitted to the FDA. These reports primarily involve children aged 1 to 4 years. The FDA is diligently evaluating incoming adverse event reports to understand the extent of the issue further.

Consumers are strongly advised to take the following precautions:

• Do not eat, sell, or serve recalled WanaBana, Schnucks, or Weis-brand apple cinnamon pouches and immediately discard them.
• Check your homes for these products, which may have a long shelf life, and dispose of them properly.
• To properly discard the product, carefully open the pouch, empty its contents into a trash can, and dispose of the packaging to prevent others from accessing the recalled product.
• Clean up any spills after discarding the product, and remember to wash your hands thoroughly.
• While most children may not exhibit immediate symptoms of lead exposure, consult a healthcare provider for a blood test if you suspect a child may have been exposed to lead.
• If you experience symptoms of lead toxicity after consuming the recalled fruit pouches, contact your healthcare provider promptly.

The FDA is actively investigating the source of contamination and determining whether additional products are linked to illnesses. There have been no reports of illnesses or elevated blood lead levels associated with other cinnamon-containing products or cinnamon. The FDA will continue to update the advisory as more information becomes available.

The safety and well-being of consumers, especially children, are of utmost importance. Stay informed and take the necessary precautions to protect yourself and your loved ones.

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