"High Lead Levels in Fruit Pouches Poison 22 Toddlers, Exceeding Safety Threshold"

At least 22 toddlers in 14 states have suffered acute lead poisoning after consuming recalled apple cinnamon fruit puree pouches, which were found to contain extremely high levels of lead. Some of the affected children had blood lead levels eight times higher than the federal reference level. The contaminated products include WanaBana, Schnucks, and Weis brands, all of which have been recalled. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has issued a health advisory, urging clinicians and health departments to be vigilant for cases of acute lead poisoning. Lead toxicity can cause severe neurological conditions and long-term cognitive deficits in children.