Snack Time Safety Alert: A recent study by Consumer Reports revealed concerning levels of lead in some popular veggie puff brands marketed towards children. These puffs, often seen as a healthy alternative to sugary snacks, may pose a health risk due to lead contamination.
Lead Lurking in Cassava-Based Puffs: The study found excessive amounts of lead in certain cassava-based veggie puffs made by Lesser Evil and Serenity Kids. In the case of Lesser Evil’s Lil’ Puffs Intergalactic Voyager Veggie Blend, even a single serving exceeded safe lead limits for children.
Consumer Reports Recommendations:
- Lesser Evil Lil’ Puffs Intergalactic Voyager Veggie Blend:Â Limit consumption to less than half a serving per day.
- Lesser Evil Lil’ Puffs Sweet Potato Apple Asteroid & Serenity Kids’ Tomato & Herb Bone Broth Puffs:Â Limit consumption to 1.5 servings per day.
Shifting Starches, Same Concerns: Previous Consumer Reports testing found high arsenic levels in rice-based puffs. This led some manufacturers to switch to alternative starches like cassava, but the lead issue persists.
A Brighter Spot: The study identified two sorghum-based puff products from Once Upon a Farm with very low lead levels. These puffs also ranked among the lowest in lead content of all baby foods tested by Consumer Reports.
The Call to Action: Consumer Reports urges manufacturers to prioritize stricter controls to eliminate heavy metals from their products, particularly those made with cassava.
The Takeaway: While veggie puffs can be a convenient snack option, it’s crucial to choose brands with a proven safety record. Look for puffs made with alternative starches like sorghum, which appear to have lower lead content based on this study.
