ATLANTA — Georgia's Department of Public Health said Wednesday it was investigating potential cases of high blood levels in children stemming from a recall of cinnamon applesauce products.
At least 22 toddlers in 14 states were sickened by lead linked to tainted pouches of cinnamon apple puree and applesauce that are now under a recall announced by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration on Monday.
The Georgia DPH said Wednesday in a release it did not yet have any confirmed cases in Georgia. The public health agency did not say how many children might be getting monitored in Georgia or where those potential cases may have originated within the state.
The recall includes three brands of cinnamon applesauce, one which is sold nationally and two of which are primarily sold in the Midwest and Mid-Atlantic.
- WanaBana brand apple cinnamon fruit purée pouches (sold nationally)
- Schnucks brand cinnamon applesauce pouches (sold in Midwest states)
- Weis brand cinnamon applesauce pouches (sold in Mid-Atlantic states)
According to the U.S. FDA, the national brand WanaBana is sold through retailers that include Amazon, Dollar Tree and other online outlets.
"Cases experienced symptoms including headache, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, change in activity level, and anemia," Georgia DPH said in a release. "Parents and caregivers of children who may have consumed recalled products should contact the child’s healthcare provider about getting a blood test for lead."
The agency added that a simple blood test taken from a finger or hell prick can detect lead poisoning.
If you have any of the affected products, you are advised to throw them out and contact your healthcare provider.
