(NewsSpace.com) – When a product tests positive for lead, it’s imperative that it be removed from store shelves. The chemical element is naturally occurring but can have detrimental side effects on both children and adults when consumed. In 2023, a food company recalled one of its products after it tested positive for lead, but one company allegedly neglected to pull it and is now facing the possibility of fines.
On June 11, the FDA sent a warning letter to Dollar Tree CEO Rick Dreiling. The agency reiterated that there was an active recall of WanaBana Apple Cinnamon Fruit Puree pouches due to a sample testing positive for high lead content. The product had been recalled in October 2023. Yet, it was still offered for sale on Dollar Tree shelves.
The store chain advised that it had placed a stop sale warning on the product, which meant it wouldn’t ring up when scanned. However, one customer allowed her child to eat one of the pouches while shopping, so that particular deterrent was deemed ineffective. That’s not the only occurrence of the product still being available at Dollar Tree stores, either.
The FDA noted that “to date [Dollar Tree has] not provided the FDA with any information demonstrating that long-term, sustainable corrections have been implemented” to prevent the receipt and sale of adulterated food. The agency asked the company to respond in writing, within 15 days of the letter, of the steps it’s taking to not just remove the product, but also to prevent recurrence and provide documentation to that effect. It is also giving Dollar Tree the chance to appeal the decision by providing “reasoning and any supportive information” for the FDA to consider.
Dollar Tree, on the other hand, says it “took immediate action and began executing a recall” when it was notified of the issue. The company says it will continue to work with the FDA.
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