Despite comprehensive efforts to curb lead exposure from various sources, including paint and gasoline, the absence of broad limits on lead levels in food has raised concerns. This gap in oversight has become particularly evident as cases of lead poisonings in young children linked to contaminated cinnamon applesauce continue to rise.
The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) reported lead poisoning in at least 65 children, all under 6 years old, who consumed recalled cinnamon apple puree and applesauce. This marks an increase from 57 cases reported two weeks ago. The vulnerability of children under 6 to lead poisoning, which can result in developmental issues and damage to the brain and nervous system, underscores the need for regulatory measures.
Efforts to establish guidelines for limiting lead exposure in children date back to the 1980s. While progress has been made in reducing exposure from sources like paint, gasoline, and lead-soldered cans, the focus on limiting lead directly in food has been comparatively recent. In 2022, the FDA introduced limits for lead levels in apple juice, juice blend drinks, and candy made with sugar.
Lead, a naturally occurring element, can infiltrate the food supply through various means, making it challenging to eliminate all traces. Dr. Leonardo Trasande from NYU Langone Health emphasizes the importance of testing and supporting the FDA’s efforts to monitor food for lead.
While the FDA routinely monitors toxic elements in foods, its oversight is not as stringent as for prescription drugs. Dr. Adam Keating from the Cleveland Clinic notes that the responsibility for food oversight is often placed on farmers or manufacturers.
The FDA has been working to set more limits for lead in foods, particularly baby food, since 2021. This initiative followed a congressional investigation revealing contamination in major commercial baby food brands with arsenic, lead, cadmium, and mercury.
In January, the FDA proposed limits on lead levels in processed baby food, aiming to reduce exposure by up to 27%. The proposed guidelines, expected to be finalized by 2025, include limiting lead concentrations in various products.
Consumer Reports’ Brian Ronholm suggests the proposed limits are based on industry capabilities rather than optimal public health protection. He advocates for stricter limits, emphasizing that there is no safe level for lead in food.
Legislation, such as the Baby Food Safety Act, has been introduced to establish limits for heavy metals in baby foods. Though not passed in the last Congress, senators plan to reintroduce it soon. The act proposes a lead limit of 5 parts per billion in most baby foods.
Experts agree that while regulatory action is crucial, parents can take steps to protect their children, such as routine lead testing and wellness checks. The call for stronger regulation aligns with ongoing efforts to ensure the safety of food, especially for the most vulnerable populations.