Lead poisoning alert! 2 babies in US fall sick after eating recalled baby food – Healthcare News
Two babies in Oregon have been diagnosed with lead poisoning after eating baby food that had been previously recalled, health officials confirmed. The affected product was a 4-ounce vegetable puree made by Fruselva and sold under Target’s Good and Gather brand. The flavour included peas, zucchini, kale, and thyme, with a best-by date of December 2024.
The food was recalled in March 2024, but the Oregon Health Authority (OHA) believes some families may still have the jars at home.
“Even though the recall has been officially terminated, it’s important for parents to double-check their pantry shelves,” said Ryan Barker, coordinator of OHA’s Childhood Lead Poisoning Prevention Program.
Why lead exposure is dangerous for babies
While the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) marked the recall as Class II—meaning any harm would likely be temporary, health experts still consider the risk serious, especially for young children.
“Lead is toxic for everyone, but babies and toddlers are much more vulnerable,” said Barker. “Even small amounts of lead can cause long-term damage to the brain and nervous system.”
Prolonged exposure can result in:
- Learning difficulties
- Speech delays
- Attention problems
- Lower IQ
- Behavioural issues
Warning signs to watch out for
Parents and caregivers are urged to look for these signs of possible lead exposure in children:
- Unusual tiredness or low energy
- Crankiness or irritability
- Trouble sleeping
- Hyperactivity
- Poor appetite or weight loss
- Stomach pain
- Difficulty concentrating
If you notice any of these symptoms, health officials recommend seeing a paediatrician immediately and requesting a blood lead test.
Preventive measures for parents
To keep your child safe from lead exposure, consider these steps:
- Check baby food recalls regularly on official websites like the FDA or your state’s health department.
- Avoid old or expired jars of baby food, even if unopened.
- Use homemade purees made from fresh, organic produce to reduce risk.
- Store food in lead-free containers, especially if preparing in advance.
- Ensure drinking water is tested for lead, especially in older homes with outdated plumbing.
Safer alternatives to store-bought purees
If you want to avoid the risk altogether, here are some healthy, lead-free baby food ideas you can make at home:
- Steamed and mashed carrots, sweet potatoes, or apples
- Blended avocado with banana for healthy fats and nutrients
- Oatmeal or rice porridge with mashed fruits
- Pumpkin puree with a touch of cinnamon
Homemade food not only lowers the risk of contamination but also gives you more control over what your baby eats. Safety starts at home, and awareness is the first step in protecting your child from preventable harm.
