Possible Intentional Tainting of Applesauce Pouches with Lead, FDA Investigates

The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has stated that applesauce pouches that allegedly caused lead poisoning in children may have been intentionally contaminated. The three recalled products, WanaBana, Weis, and Schnucks apple cinnamon fruit purée pouches, were found to have elevated lead levels. The FDA suspects "economically motivated adulteration" or "food fraud" as a possible cause, where valuable ingredients are intentionally altered or substituted without transparency. Lead poisoning can have serious health effects, and the FDA is currently investigating the supply chain to identify those responsible. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has reported 125 cases of lead poisoning linked to the recalled products. Consumers are advised to discard any remaining pouches.