FDA Screens Cinnamon Imports for Lead Amid Illnesses in Children

Contaminated applesauce puree products linked to Ecuadorian cinnamon have sickened at least 34 children in 22 states.

Cinnamon from a manufacturer in Ecuador is the likely source of high levels of lead found in recalled pouches of applesauce puree linked to illnesses in at least 34 children in 22 states.
The FDA is now screening imports of cinnamon from multiple countries for toxic lead contamination.
One pouch of recalled WanaBana apple cinnamon puree collected from a Dollar Tree store was found to have lead levels more than 200 times higher than proposed FDA guidance would allow.
The recalled fruit products include pouches of WanaBana apple cinnamon fruit puree and Schnucks and Weis brand cinnamon applesauce, sold at the Dollar Tree, on Amazon and in other online outlets.
Children who have fallen ill reported headache, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea and anemia, but often kids may show no symptoms. Lead exposure can lead to serious learning, cognitive and behavior problems.