Possible Intentional Contamination of Applesauce Pouches with Lead Raises Concerns

The FDA is investigating whether lead poisoning in children may be linked to cinnamon added to popular applesauce pouches. The investigation is focused on determining if lead was added to the cinnamon along the global supply chain. A national recall of three million pouches of cinnamon applesauce made in Ecuador was announced in November. The case highlights a gap in FDA food oversight, as there is no federal requirement to test for lead in food. The levels of lead in children's blood are often the first indication of lead in food, and the FDA has not set enforceable limits for lead in food or spices.