Lunchables Contain High Levels of Lead and Sodium, Consumer Reports Finds
Lunchables, a popular choice for elementary school children’s lunches, has come under scrutiny due to concerns over high levels of lead and sodium found in the grab-and-go meals. Independent testing by nonprofit organization Consumer Reports revealed that three different types of Lunchables, along with similar lunch kits from other brands such as Armour and Target, contained high levels of lead and cadmium, another heavy metal. It was found that five out of the 12 lunch kits tested had lead levels that would expose someone to 50% or more of California’s maximum allowable amount (with no federal limits for heavy metals in most foods).
In addition to high lead levels, the store-bought lunch kits tested by Consumer Reports had sodium levels ranging from 460 mg to 740 mg per serving, which is almost a quarter to half of children’s daily limit. Surprisingly, the Lunchables designed for the National School Lunch Program had even higher sodium levels than the store versions.
Consumer Reports Calls for Removal from National School Lunch Program
Dr. Carl Baum, a medical toxicologist for Yale Medicine and director of the Lead Poisoning and Regional Treatment Center in Connecticut, emphasizes the potential harm of lead exposure in children. He explains that lead and other heavy metals can interfere with the developing brain, leading to behavioral issues, slow growth, and learning and developmental problems. Dr. Sara Scherger, a pediatrician at the Mayo Health Clinic, adds that long-term exposure to high levels of lead can cause kidney and nervous system damage.
Consumer Reports has urged the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) to remove Lunchables from the National School Lunch Program. Brian Ronholm, director of food policy at Consumer Reports, highlights the unhealthiness of these products for children and the need for action.
Kraft Heinz Defends Lunchables
Kraft Heinz, the parent company of Lunchables, has defended the product, claiming it adheres to all USDA standards. A spokesperson for Kraft Heinz emphasized that Lunchables are a good protein source and stated that the company has made efforts to improve nutrition, including adding fresh fruit and reducing sodium levels. The company suggested that many processed foods contain added nutrients, providing additional benefits.
Addressing the concerns raised by the Consumer Reports study, Kraft Heinz stressed that the tested products did not exceed any legal or regulatory limits of heavy metals. The company pointed out that the metals in question (lead and cadmium) are naturally occurring and may be present in low levels in any food product.
Kraft Heinz maintained that Lunchables meet USDA standards and that the sodium content, which may be higher due to increased amounts of meat for protein, adheres to acceptable limits.
Sodium and its Effect on Health
Sodium, despite being an essential electrolyte in the body, poses a health concern when consumed in excess. Lunchables, including items like deli meats and pizza, contain high amounts of sodium. According to dietitian Tami Best, excessive sodium intake can lead to metabolic disturbances, cardiovascular disease, and kidney impairment. The recommended daily sodium intake for children is less than 1,500 mg and less than 2,300 mg for adults. To reduce sodium intake, experts recommend prioritizing fresh produce, using herbs and spices for flavor, limiting processed foods, and cooking at home more often. Consuming potassium-rich foods can also help balance sodium levels in the body.
Concerns and the Way Forward
While lead and sodium levels in Lunchables have raised concerns, it’s important to note that lead exposure in children primarily comes from living in older homes with lead paint. However, the presence of heavy metals in processed foods is a matter that needs attention. Consumer Reports’ call for Lunchables to be removed from school cafeterias has garnered significant support, with thousands signing a petition to urge the USDA to take action.
