Bismarck, North Dakota – When a parent gets their child a snack, lead poisoning may be the last thing on their mind. However, as of November 16, 34 kids had been identified as having lead poisoning as a result of eating fruit pouch snacks with a cinnamon flavor.
Although N.D. has not yet received any reports, there have been cases reported in 22 states thus far, and the products were marketed across the country.
After discovering elevated levels of lead in WanaBana, Weis, and Schnucks cinnamon-flavored fruit pouches, the FDA recalled the products. Since no other product from the company had elevated lead levels, they believe the cinnamon is to blame. They’re currently looking at potential causes of the pollution.
“The big concern with lead is that if you ingest it over time, it can cause behavioral issues and IQ issues. So we know that children’s IQ is directly related to their lead level inversely, so the higher your lead level, it can cost you more IQ points in the long-term,” said Dr. Danielle Thurtle, a pediatric hospitalist at Sanford Health.
Dr. Thurtle advised getting a blood test for your child from their pediatrician if you’re worried about their exposure to lead.
