Attorney General William Tong joined a coalition of attorney generals nationwide calling on the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to take urgent action to protect infants and young children from lead and other toxic metals in baby food after hundreds of lead poisoning cases in Connecticut have been linked to recalled WanaBana Apple Cinnamon Fruit Puree pouches.
In a letter sent to the FDA, Tong and the coalition urged the agency to act on a 2021 petition that was denied and a subsequent 2022 petition and letter, which asked the FDA to require testing of all baby food products for lead and other toxic metals. This newest letter marks the third attempt by Tong and the coalition to have the FDA issue industry standards.
“There is zero excuse for toxic metals in baby food. For years, we have urged the FDA to adopt strong, specific guidance around testing for toxic metals in baby food. For years, FDA has delayed its duty. Now, hundreds of children have been permanently harmed due to untested toxic lead in cinnamon applesauce pouches. The FDA cannot wait any longer to protect our children and the safety of our food supply,” said Tong.
While the FDA concluded that babies and infants are more vulnerable to the harmful effects of lead and other toxic metals because of their small bodies and metabolisms, Tong and the coalition claim the agency has been slow to respond to concerns.
In 2021, the FDA announced the “Close to Zero” plan, where the agency committed to offering “action levels” for lead and other toxic metals in various baby foods.
Since announcing the plan three years ago, the FDA has only established one action level for one type of toxic metal called inorganic arsenic. The coalition letter expressed frustration with alleged inaction:
“This lengthy delay is especially concerning because of the lengthy and vague timelines that FDA set for itself to propose and finalize action levels for toxic elements in food for babies and young children as part of the FDA’s “Closer to Zero” plan, first announced in April 2021.”
The FDA had previously set yearly deadlines regarding the action levels they must fulfill, but they have since been removed from their website.
Under current FDA policy, baby food manufacturers are not required to test their products for toxic metals and other contaminants.
The Connecticut Department of Public Health highlights the need to protect the health and safety of the people of Connecticut:
“Consumers are advised to discard these items immediately and contact a healthcare provider if they or a family member consumed the tainted products or are showing symptoms,” said Connecticut Department of Public Health Commissioner Manisha Juthani, MD. “Symptoms from short-term exposure can include headaches, vomiting, and abdominal pain.
“It is critical to check your home for these products, which could be harmful if consumed,” added Connecticut Department of Consumer Protection Commissioner Bryant T. Cafferelli.
Lead is a chemical that is toxic to the human body and can affect people of any age or health status. Lead poisoning in children can cause permanent intellectual disabilities and behavioral disorders. High levels of exposure to lead can cause severe damage to the brain and central nervous system, causing comas and convulsions.
DPH recommends that all children be tested at least annually between 9 and 35 months to ensure they are not exposed to lead.
As of publication, the FDA has not responded to the coalition letter.
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