The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has ramped up measures following the detection of lead and chromium in apple cinnamon fruit puree pouches that were previously recalled due to reports of elevated blood lead levels in children.
The FDA has issued a warning letter to Dollar Tree, Inc., criticizing the retailer for failing to adequately remove the recalled WanaBana apple cinnamon fruit puree pouches from its shelves. This step falls under the FDA's ongoing response efforts post-recall.
In addition, the FDA has placed the distributor of the cinnamon used in the contaminated products, Negasmart (operating as Sanchez Obando Alexander Ricardo), on multiple import alerts. Furthermore, Austrofood S.A.S., the manufacturer of the apple cinnamon fruit puree pouches, has also been added to an import alert following the recall.
The FDA has completed its initial response activities to determine the source of contamination and prevent further illnesses. Their continued efforts will focus on prevention, compliance, and surveillance.
The recall of WanaBana's apple cinnamon fruit puree pouches was first initiated in October of the previous year after four children fell ill due to elevated lead levels. These products, packaged in 2.5 oz., 3-pack pouches, were distributed across the nation through online and retail avenues, including Dollar Tree and Amazon, and were also sold under private labels by Schnucks and Weis.
Despite the recall, public health officials in various states reported finding the recalled products on Dollar Tree shelves in the weeks and months that followed. The FDA underscored the importance of retailers in executing recalls effectively, emphasizing concerns over Dollar Tree's capability to promptly remove unsafe items. The retailer has been given 15 days from receipt of the warning letter to outline specific corrective actions to address and prevent future violations.
Additionally, Negasmart/Sanchez Obando Alexander Ricardo faces import alerts for products believed to be adulterated for economic gain and those contaminated with heavy metals.
For further health news, visit rttnews.com.
