FDA Releases Investigation Findings of Elevated Lead Levels in Cinnamon Applesauce Pouches

FDA is reminding Americans to not eat, sell, or serve multiple brands of recalled apple cinnamon fruit pouches.

To date, the FDA has reviewed 90 confirmed complaints/reports of adverse events potentially linked to recalled product. Confirmed complainants, or people for whom a complaint or adverse event was submitted and met FDA’s complainant definition, are between zero and 53 years of age and the median age is one year old.

CDC’s National Center for Environmental Health is conducting case finding efforts in collaboration with state and local health departments. CDC’s case definition for state partners includes a blood lead level of 3.5 µg/dL or higher measured within 3 months after consuming a recalled WanaBana, Schnucks, or Weis brand fruit puree product after November 2022. As of March 8, CDC has received reports of 126 confirmed cases, 336 probable cases, and 37 suspected cases for a total of 499 cases from 44 different states through their reporting structure. For more information, please visit CDC’s page to review their case reporting methodology and findings.

CDC and FDA have different data sources, so the counts reported by each agency will not directly correspond. In addition, some people who were affected by the contaminated product might be reflected in both the numbers reported by the FDA and the numbers reported by CDC, so the numbers should not be added together.

So far there has been one documented report in Arizona.

Recalled cinnamon apple puree and applesauce products. Information on lot codes and UPCs can be found in the recall announcement.

• Recalled WanaBana apple cinnamon fruit puree pouches – including three packs
• Recalled Schnucks-brand cinnamon-flavored applesauce pouches and variety pack
• Recalled Weis-brand cinnamon applesauce pouches

Stores Affected

• WanaBana apple cinnamon fruit puree pouches are sold nationally and have been available through multiple retailers, including Amazon, Dollar Tree, Family Dollar/Dollar Tree combination stores, and other online outlets.
• Schnucks-brand cinnamon-flavored applesauce pouches and variety pack are sold at Schnucks and Eatwell Markets grocery stores.
• Weis-brand cinnamon applesauce pouches are sold at Weis grocery stores.