Friend, Lead shouldn't be in anyone's food -- and it especially shouldn't be in baby food. But years of research on baby foods like mashed fruits and vegetables has discovered the toxic heavy metal in concentrations known to risk permanent neurological harm.1 There is no safe level of lead for children.2 The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) is considering new regulations that would set limits on the maximum amount of lead in certain baby foods, and the agency has asked the public to weigh in. We need to urge the FDA to set the strictest possible limits on lead in baby food. Our kids' health is counting on it. Add your name before the March 27 deadline. Exposure to lead can result in lifelong damage -- especially for kids under 6, who are still growing rapidly. Lead harms kids' brains and nervous systems, slowing their growth, leading to learning and behavior problems, and impacting their hearing and speech.3 When a child eats food contaminated with lead, the toxic metal quickly enters their bloodstream. Once lead is stored in the bones, it can remain in the body for decades.4 And there is no cure for lead poisoning. Preventing exposure to lead in the first place is the best -- the only -- way to keep our kids safe.5 Tell the FDA to set strict limits on lead in baby food today. Under the new rules, the FDA will be able to penalize manufacturers whose products contain too much lead. The agency could recall or seize the dangerous products, or even recommend criminal prosecution.6 The draft guidance isn't perfect. No level of lead in food is safe for kids, and the new rule sets a limit higher than zero. But by taking this step today, the FDA can significantly reduce childhood lead exposure, and move us closer to a future where no child is harmed by lead in their food. Thank you, Faye Park | |
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