The Niagara County Department of Health is working with state and federal officials to investigate high lead levels in the blood of a Niagara County child who consumed applesauce that is sold locally and was the subject of a recent product recall by the Food and Drug Administration.
“Our investigation is ongoing,” Public Health Director Daniel J. Stapleton said in a Wednesday news release. “We are coordinating with the child’s healthcare provider and in the process of determining all potential sources of exposure.”
The local investigation follows the Oct. 28 advisory issued by the FDA regarding applesauce pouches containing high levels of lead. Recalls of several apple puree and applesauce products were initiated
The FDA investigation is ongoing and recalls of several apple puree and applesauce products were initiated after four children were found to have high blood lead levels, indicating potential acute lead toxicity. Currently, recalls are in effect for all lot codes and expiration dates of these products:
— WanaBana Apple Cinnamon Fruit Purée Pouches. These were sold and distributed by multiple retailers in New York state including Dollar Tree, Sam’s Club, Target, Walmart and Whole Foods. They are also available for purchase through online retailers such as Amazon.
— Weis Cinnamon Applesauce Pouches. Specific lots of UPC 041497216123 were sold in Weis grocery stores throughout New York state, including locations in Binghamton, Elmira, Endicott, Endwell and Vestal, as well as in several stores in Pennsylvania.
— Schnucks Applesauce Pouches (cinnamon flavor and variety pack). Schnucks is a grocery store chain with 15 locations throughout Missouri, Illinois, Indiana and Wisconsin. There are no locations within New York state.
As of Monday, there were 22 cases of lead toxicity in children that consumed the apple purée products in 14 states.
In each case, the child is aged 1 to 3 years and has Blood Lead Levels (BLLs) ranging from 4 to 29 micrograms per deciliter. Affected children experienced signs and symptoms including headache, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, change in activity level, and anemia.
Most children have no obvious, immediate symptoms from lead exposure, so testing is recommended in the event of known exposure. Long-term health effects can include damage to the brain and nervous system, slowed growth and development, learning and behavior problems, and hearing or speech problems.
Stapleton encouraged parents and caregivers to check their pantries and cupboards and immediately discard any of the recalled products, or return them to the place of purchase for a refund. Parents and caregivers who may have consumed the recalled products themselves should contact their health provider.
Those with concerns about a child’s exposure to a recalled product, or questions about blood testing, may call the health department’s Lead Poisoning Prevention nurse at 716-278-8212.