FDA Issues Statement on Lead Contamination in Certain Candy Products Imported From Mexico

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) issued a statement on April 9, 2004 regarding lead contamination of some Mexican candy products being sold in the United States. 

FDA has compiled information which indicates that candies and related products that contain significant amounts of chili powder may contain higher lead levels than other types of candy, such as candy that predominantly contains sugar. Examples of chili containing products include lollipops coated with chili and powdery mixtures of salt, lemon flavor and chili seasoning sold as a snack item. Lead has also been found in some of the candy wrappers and clay pots the candy comes in.

The Orange County Register newspaper in California spent two years investigating lead contaminated candy from Mexico. To view the narrated slide show or to read the six part special investigative series (available in English and Spanish), visit the Orange County Register's full story-Toxic Treats. EXIT

Toxic Treat poster-English pdf

Toxic Treat poster-Spanish pdf