The Not-So-Innocent Lunchables
According to a recent study by Consumer Reports, the fun, colorful, and convenient Lunchables loved by kids and appreciated by busy parents may not be as harmless as they seem. Hidden within the seemingly innocent packaging, these lunchbox favorites may contain harmful heavy metals and chemicals that could adversely affect health.
The independent, nonprofit organization tested 12 different store-bought Lunchables and similar products and discovered unsettling results. Each of the tested products contained traces of lead and cadmium, heavy metals linked to a variety of health problems in both children and adults.
Lead and Cadmium: A Silent Threat
While it’s important to note that none of the products violated any laws concerning heavy metal levels, experts warn that there is no safe level of lead or cadmium exposure. Even in small quantities, these substances can affect child development and increase the risk of hypertension, kidney damage, and other health issues in adults.
In the absence of a national standard limit for heavy metals in food, Consumer Reports used the California maximum allowable dose level (MADL)—known for its strictness—as a benchmark.
The Brands in Question
The Kraft Heinz company, the maker of Lunchables, responded to the study by stating that its products “meet strict safety standards.” They added that “lead and cadmium occur naturally in the environment and may be present in low levels in food products.”
However, the study’s researchers argue that the levels of lead found in the tested products were relatively high considering their small serving sizes. Lunchables Turkey and Cheddar Cracker Stackers had the highest lead levels, followed by Lunchables Pizza with Pepperoni. These products alongside those produced by Smithfield’s Armour LunchMakers and Target’s Good & Gather brand contained more than 50% of the maximum allowable dose level for lead.
The Hidden Health Risks
Aside from lead and cadmium, the study also detected phthalates, chemicals used to increase the durability of plastics, in all but one of the tested products. Phthalates, although common in processed foods packaging, are associated with reproductive problems, obesity, diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and certain cancers.
Eric Boring, the chemist leading the study, stated, “We don’t think anybody should regularly eat these products, and they definitely shouldn’t be considered a healthy school lunch.” He further added that while none of the products exceeded any regulatory limits, many researchers believe those limits are too lenient given the emerging research about phthalates’ harms.
Key Takeaways
- Recent study reveals presence of harmful heavy metals in popular lunchbox products.
- Even small quantities of lead and cadmium can pose health risks.
- Kraft Heinz company, maker of Lunchables, insists their products meet strict safety standards.
- Phthalates, commonly found in processed food packaging, are linked to various health issues.
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