FDA suspects recalled applesauce may be contaminated for profit

The US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) suspects the high amount of lead in some cinnamon applesauces was a profit-motivated intentional contamination.

The agency recalled pouches of the product sold under WanaBana, Schnucks and Weis in November after it sickened at least 125 children.

The FDA is investigating a facility in Ecuador, conducting an onsite inspection where these applesauces were produced. 

Efforts are ongoing to trace the source of lead contamination to another Ecuadorian plant, Negasmart—a cinnamon supplier to the applesauce manufacturer.

Why cinnamon?
Food safety experts told the New York Times that lead could be added to spices with a reddish hue (like cinnamon) to increase weight, which increases the price. 

Despite food safety laws, the FDA does not currently test for lead in food imported to or made in America—making it easier to contaminate products for profit margins.

Over 60 children under age 6 have tested positive for lead poisoning after consuming the applesauce pouches.

Look out
There are no obvious immediate symptoms of lead toxicity in children, short-term exposure to it could result in headache, abdominal pain, vomiting and anemia. 

Long-term exposure could result in irritability, lethargy, fatigue, muscle aches or muscle prickling/burning, constipation, difficulty concentrating/muscular weakness, tremors and weight loss.