Dear Editor:
Some candies imported or obtained from Mexico have been found to be contaminated with lead, according to the officials of the New Jersey Poison Information and Education System.
Of primary concern is “tamarind” which is often sold unwrapped, loose, in ceramic containers as well as wrapped candy and lollipops made with chili powder. The ceramic containers used to store the tamarind may contain lead which then contaminates the tamarind. Several reports also note that the chili powder used to make chili-flavored candy is contaminated with lead.
Dr. Steven Marcus, medical director of NJPIES, said, “Any addition of lead to the diet has the potential to be a problem. Anyone who has consumed these potentially lead containing products should be screened for lead poisoning by their physician.”
Dr. Bruce Ruck of NJPIES said, “Generally one thinks of lead poisoning as a disease either of little children eating paint chips or workers getting poisoned from on the job exposure. Lead is a common contaminant of our environment and occasionally even appears in the foods we eat or drink. As part of routine health care, all children should be screened for lead poisoning at one and two years of age and when necessary based upon potential exposure to lead.”
For more information the New Jersey Poison Information and Education System is available 24 hours a day to assist you. Call 1-800-222-1222 and trained medical professionals will provide you with the most up-to-date emergency treatment advice and will answer any drug or poison information question you may have. For a free packet of information and telephone stickers call 1-800-222-1222. Roberta Swenson, MPH
The New Jersey Poison Information & Education System