IDPH warns of lead poisoning in recalled Cinnamon Applesauce Pouches

The IDPH is alerting consumers to an FDA recall of children's cinnamon applesauce puches which may contain elevated levels of lead. At least one confrimed case in Ill., and a total of 34 nationwide, have been linked to the product, which was sold online and at chains like Schnucks and Dollar Tree under the brand names WanaBana, Weis, and Schnucks.

Information on specific lot numbers and UPC codes can be found through the recall advisory issued by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration. Elevated levels of lead can be dangerous to persons of any age. Children are particularly susceptible to lead toxicity. Lead is a neurotoxin and exposure can impact a child's development. Most children with elevated lead levels have no symptoms. Occassionally, nonspecific symptoms may include headache, abdominal pain and vomiting.

Consumers should not eat or serve the product and should dispose of it safely. IDPH recommends opening the packets, dumping the contents into a plastic bag, and then discarding the bag and the contents, in order to prevent anyone from attempting to salvage the unopened product from the trash. Wash hands thoroughly after disposing of the product.

For more information on lead poisoning and IDPH's efforts to coombat it, go to: Lead Poisoning Prevention (illinois.gov).