Is That Lead You're Eating?

Lead exposure is a severe public health concern, particularly for babies and children, as it can cause long-term developmental and behavioral problems. Research has shown that children from various regions, including Cuba, Haiti, Asia, Vietnam and Africa, and the Near East, have been found to have blood lead levels, highlighting the importance of identifying and addressing potential sources of lead exposure, such as contaminated soil, water, and food. In the United States, imports are a significant source of lead exposure. According to the FDA, over 99% of cosmetic lip products and externally applied cosmetics on the U.S. market contain lead.

A groundbreaking analysis reveals that approximately 800 million children globally (about one-third of all children) have blood lead levels at or above five micrograms per deciliter (μg/dL).

One of the most concerning sources of lead exposure is the improper recycling of used lead-acid batteries (ULABs), commonly found in vehicles such as cars and trucks. 

Lead poisoning can cause various symptoms, including abdominal pain, constipation, headaches, fatigue, irritability, memory loss, joint and muscle pain, high blood pressure, anemia, nerve damage, and in severe cases, seizures, coma, and even death.

According to the Environmental Defense Fund, over the past four years, the detectable levels of lead in baby food have remained alarmingly high at 83%-100%. Baby foods containing lead include teething biscuits, arrowroot cookies, carrots, and sweet potatoes.

Other familiar sources of lead include canned foods, imported foods, certain types of fish, spices, ceramic dishware, dietary supplements, and cosmetics.

Lead-tin solder, a material commonly used in copper pipes, has posed a significant risk to the safety of the drinking water supply. Despite the FDA's ban on using lead-tin solder in plumbing systems in 1995, it is estimated that millions of homes across the United States still have lead-containing solder in their pipes. Over time, lead can leach into the drinking water supply, leading to exposure in those who consume it.

To mitigate the risks associated with lead in drinking water, it is crucial to identify and replace lead-containing plumbing systems and to use effective water treatment methods to remove lead from drinking water. To reduce the risk of lead exposure from food, it is essential to follow safe food handling practices, choose canned foods that are lead-free or low in lead, and avoid using certain ceramic dishware. Additionally, it is crucial to implement adequate preventive measures, such as screening and testing, to mitigate the harmful effects of lead exposure and protect the health and well-being of children.