Update: On November 22, 2023 the FDA updated the number of reported adverse events linked with these recalled products, which are noted below. The agency also stated that recalled WanaBana Apple Cinnamon Puree remains on the shelves at several Dollar Tree stores in multiple states, and is working to ensure an effective recall.

WanaBana, Schnucks, and Weis apple cinnamon fruit puree pouches have been recalled after being linked, as of November 22, 2023, to 52 reports of illness, including four children with potential lead toxicity. Testing has confirmed that recalled WanaBana Apple Cinnamon Fruit Puree contains extremely high concentrations of lead, according to the FDA, and investigation by the agency’s Coordinated Outbreak Response & Evaluation (CORE) Network and CDC is ongoing.

Schnucks was informed by its cinnamon supplier that elevated levels of lead were found in the cinnamon raw material used in its recalled pouches. Lead contamination in a known concern with herbs and spices, and ConsumerLab tests of cinnamon have revealed elevated levels of lead, as well as coumarin, a compound that may be toxic to the liver and a potential carcinogen, in some cinnamon products.

Exposure to lead, even at low levels, is associated with neurological impairment, and in children, learning disabilities and lower IQ scores. The levels of lead found in these products exceeds the recommended daily lead exposure for children less than 6 years of age and women of childbearing age and can potentially cause serious injury. Symptoms of lead toxicity include abdominal pain, headache, changes in blood pressure, dizziness, kidney and brain damage. Chronic exposure to lead has been linked to kidney, liver, and bone damage in humans.

Consumers should not eat, sell, or serve these products, and should discard them. The FDA also warned parents that most children have no obvious immediate symptoms of lead exposure, so parents should talk to their child’s healthcare provider about getting a blood test if there is suspicion their child may have been exposed to lead.

For more details about the recalled cinnamon applesauce pouches, use the links below.

• WanaBana Apple Cinnamon Fruit Purée Pouches -- sold nationwide through retailers such as Amazon, Dollar Tree, and other online outlets.
• Cinnamon-flavored Applesauce Pouches and Variety packs -- sold at Schnucks and Eatwell Markets grocery stores.
• Weis-brand cinnamon applesauce pouches -- sold at Weis grocery stores.

For more information, use the link below.

Investigation of Elevated Lead Levels: Applesauce Pouches (November 2023)