A recent study conducted by Consumer Reports revealed concerning levels of lead in popular brands of kids’ snacks, bringing attention to the lack of federal standards on heavy metal levels in many baby foods.
The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has only established limits on heavy metals in infant rice cereal and juice, with ongoing efforts to extend these standards to other categories of baby foods.
‘Concerning Amounts’ of Lead Found in Organic Kids Snacks From Lesser Evil, Serenity Kids: Reporthttps://t.co/cPoGFqrm3O
Can’t trust any food companies anymore, and where is the FDA? Pathetic
— American Patriot (@BuyMoreAmmo1776) June 6, 2024
Tamara Rubin, the founder of Lead Safe Mama, highlighted the issue on her website, emphasizing the importance of preventing lead poisoning and raising awareness among parents. Rubin’s previous investigations have uncovered lead in various products, including Stanley tumblers.
In the latest findings, Rubin identified high lead levels in cassava-based snacks like Serenity Kids puffs. Consumer Reports tested four cassava products from LesserEvil and Serenity Kids, along with two sorghum-based products from Once Upon a Farm.
The study revealed that LesserEvil’s Lil’ Puffs Intergalactic Voyager Veggie Blend contained the highest lead levels per serving among the 80 baby foods tested since 2017, exceeding California Proposition 65’s maximum allowable dose levels (MADLs) by 112%.
James E. Rogers, Ph.D., head of food safety testing at Consumer Reports, advised limiting children’s consumption of these puffs to less than half a serving per day. Additionally, other products like LesserEvil’s Lil’ Puffs Sweet Potato Apple Asteroid and Serenity Kids’ Tomato & Herb, Bone Broth puffs also contained elevated lead levels.
🍏🥕 Attention parents! Consumer Reports has revealed concerning findings about organic fruit and veggie snacks for kids. 😱 Stay informed about what you’re feeding your little ones.
Read the full report here: https://t.co/7nhKgu6n1K#OrganicSnacks #ConsumerReports pic.twitter.com/cOlPzLndrI— MSN (@MSN) June 6, 2024
Rogers recommended a maximum of 1 ½ servings of puffs per day for children based on these findings, emphasizing the importance of considering serving sizes.
Despite some products having low lead levels, Rogers stressed the need for manufacturers to improve heavy metal regulation, particularly in cassava-based snacks.
While some companies did not respond to requests for comment on lead levels, Serenity Kids reassured consumers of their products’ safety, citing compliance with California Prop 65 standards and rigorous testing protocols.
Jennie Shen, director of brand marketing for Serenity Kids, explained their commitment to safety and adherence to strict quality standards. She noted that lead, commonly found in foods like cassava, could originate from natural soil sources or pollution.
Serenity Kids’ approach involves thorough testing and collaboration with suppliers to ensure the lowest possible levels of contaminants in their products. They prioritize clean ingredients and maintain confidence in their products’ safety and health benefits.
😡100% of baby formulas tested by #MomsAcrossAmerica , #GMOScience , & #TheNewMDS contained toxic metals like aluminum and lead. Sign the petition to ensure the FDA regulates heavy metals in baby food and formula.
🔗https://t.co/V43WmdlQig #BabyFormulaSafety #ToxicMetals pic.twitter.com/i6QhLWnvCj
— Price-Pottenger Nutrition Foundation (@PricePottenger) June 5, 2024
In conclusion, while concerns persist regarding heavy metal levels in certain baby foods and snacks, companies like Serenity Kids are taking proactive measures to address these issues and uphold safety standards. However, the lack of comprehensive federal regulations underscores the need for greater oversight in the food industry to protect consumers, especially children, from potential health risks associated with lead exposure.
Major Points:
- Recent Consumer Reports study finds elevated lead levels in popular kids’ snacks
- Lack of federal standards on heavy metal levels in many baby foods raises concerns
- Lead Safe Mama’s investigation highlights high lead content in cassava-based snacks
- Recommendations suggest limiting children’s intake of affected snacks
- Companies like Serenity Kids emphasize safety measures but call for stronger regulations to ensure consumer protection
Susan Guglielmo – Reprinted with permission of Whatfinger News
