FDA Warns of Possible Lead Contamination in Mexican Candy

April 10, 2004

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration said it's aware of a problem associated with lead contamination of some Mexican candy products being sold in the United States. So the agency is advising parents, care providers and other responsible adults to not allow children to eat these products at this time.

The FDA said it has information showing 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 contains predominantly 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.

Also, tamarind, a popular Mexican candy item, can become contaminated with lead if it is sold in poorly made glazed ceramic vessels that release lead from the glaze into the candy, according to the agency.

FDA officials said they will work with the Mexican government and industry personnel to resolve the problem.