Recall of toddler fruit and veggie pouches over lead expanded

(WJW) — A recall on fruit and veggie pouches sold at Walgreens and some independent retailers over lead concerns is now being expanded to include additional lots, according to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration.

The original recall alert stated that Sprout Organics initiated the voluntary recall after routine sampling found one lot of its Sweet Potato Apple and Spinach pouches may contain elevated levels of lead. The recall now includes three additional lots of the same flavor variety, according to the FDA.

The FDA warns that exposure to lead, even at low levels, may increase blood lead levels. No illnesses have been reported so far.

“The effects of lead depend upon the amount and duration of exposure and age/body weight. If a child is exposed to enough lead for a protracted period of time, it can affect learning and development or cause other long-term health problems.”

The recalled products were sold in Walgreens and in independent retailers in Arizona, Colorado, Florida, Idaho, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Massachusetts, Maine, Minnesota, Mississippi, Missouri, Montana, Nevada, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New Mexico, New York, North Carolina, Ohio, Oregon, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, Texas, Utah, Vermont, Wisconsin, Wyoming and online. It was not sold in any other large retail chain besides Walgreens, said the FDA.

Here’s what to check for:

More information about the recall and refunds can be found on the FDA’s site.