The United States Food and Drug Administration has updated the number of illnesses potentially connected to the recalled WanaBana puree and applesauce products to 22 individuals. Originally, the Wanabana firm published a recall in late October, due to the discovery of high levels of lead present in their various puree and applesauce products. In that press release, on October 29, 2023, the company stated that the cause of these illness and the recall was due to “…reports of elevated levels of lead found in certain units of the produc,” clarifying that the effects of consuming lead could be ”… toxic to humans and can affect people of any age or health status. Protecting children from exposure to lead is important to lifelong good health. Lead exposure in children is often difficult to see. Most children have no obvious immediate symptoms.”
The affected WanaBana products were distributed to various stores; WanaBana cinnamon apple fruit puree pouches were sold through retailers and online services such as Amazon and the Dollar Tree. The cinnamon applesauce pouches of Weis brand were sold at Weis grocery stores. The variety pack and cinnamon-flavored applesauce pouches with the brand Schnucks, were distributed through the grocers Eatwell Markets and Schnucks.
As 22 illnesses have been connected to the levels of lead in the afore-mentioned WanaBana products by the United States Food and Drug Administration investigation services, consumers are strongly urged to avoid consumption of these puree and applesauce products. The states containing sickened individuals are as follows: Alabama, Wisconsin, Texas, Arkansas, Louisiana, Maryland, Missouri, North Carolina, New Mexico, New York, Ohio, Pennsylvania, South Carolina and Tennessee.
If in possession of the recalled WanaBana products, customers are advised to either discard the product, or return to the location of purchase for a full refund. WanaBana has emphasized that, “Parents and caregivers of toddlers and young children who may have been exposed to lead should contact their health care provider to report their symptoms and receive care…” WanaBana can be reached at [email protected] for more information regarding the illnesses and recall.
The investigation is ongoing.
