Southwest Montana News

Federal, state, and local health officials are urging residents of Montana to inspect their homes, childcare facilities, and schools for recalled cinnamon-containing applesauce or apple puree products. These products should be discarded immediately due to recent findings from the FDA that show high levels of chromium in addition to lead.

The Department of Public Health and Human Services (DPHHS) advises medical providers to monitor for possible cases of lead poisoning and chromium exposure in children who may have consumed these products. Healthcare providers can refer to the CDC’s Clinician Outreach and Communication Activity announcement for updated clinical guidance.

According to the FDA, individuals who consumed the recalled products, particularly those with elevated blood lead levels, might also have been exposed to chromium. These individuals are advised to consult with healthcare providers about monitoring for symptoms related to chromium exposure and consider further testing if necessary.

The FDA had previously recalled these products in November 2023 due to elevated levels of lead found in certain units. They were sold at 19 Dollar Tree stores across Montana but have since been removed. The products were also available nationally through retailers like Amazon.

Montana is one of 38 states reporting cases of elevated blood levels after consumption of the recalled items. As of January 9, 2024, five individuals in Montana have been identified with elevated blood lead levels linked to these cinnamon-containing applesauce products.

“New information suggests these recalled applesauce products are contaminated with more than one heavy metal," said Dr. Maggie Cook-Shimanek, Public Health Physician at DPHHS. "If you think your child may have consumed recalled fruit pouches, you should talk to your child’s health care provider." She added that consumers should check their homes and discard any remaining product as they have a long shelf life.

The CDC indicates there is no safe level of lead exposure but uses a marker of 3.5 micrograms per deciliter as a reference point for identifying children with higher-than-average blood lead levels.

Symptoms reported among children who consumed the contaminated applesauce include headache, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, changes in activity level, and anemia.