FDA warns of lead in lollipops from Mexico

WASHINGTON (CNN) -- The U.S. Food and Drug Administration Wednesday issued a warning to avoid certain tamarind candy lollipops from Mexico, labeled Dulmex brand "Bolirindo," after at least three 2-year-olds who ate the candy showed elevated lead levels.

Elevated lead content can lead to serious nervous system damage, especially in children.

The high lead content is mainly found in the candy's wrapper where tests conducted by the FDA showed 21,000 parts per million concentration of lead. The FDA is conducting further tests on the candy itself.

The product is a soft, dark brown, tamarind fruit candy lollipop on a white or orange stick and is manufactured in Mexico. The FDA said the candy is mainly distributed in California but may also be purchased in other parts of the country, particularly the Southwest.

The FDA advised anyone who may have purchased or eaten the candy to consult a doctor about having their lead levels checked.

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Lead Poisoning Prevention Outreach Program
Alliance To End Childhood Lead Poisoning

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