Why might lead be present in candy?
Some candies brought into the United States from regions such as Mexico, Central America, and South America may contain lead. Lead-containing inks and lead-laden spices (e.g. tamarind, chili powder, paprika) from the wrappers may adhere to candy. In addition, the candies themselves may contain lead, and may have a sweet taste.

Why should health care providers be concerned about lead in candy?
Many cases of childhood lead poisoning occur in children under the age of 5 or 6, secondary to exposure to familiar sources, such as lead paint, dirt, or glazed pottery. Classically, such exposures are augmented by hand-to-mouth behavior during normal child development. The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends routine screening during the 1st and 2nd year checkups. Candies are likely to be ingested well beyond the recommended ages for screening, however. As a result, many cases of lead poisoning in older children, pre-teens, and adolescents may be missed. Single doses of some candies may have lead contents over 60x the FDA allowable dietary intake of lead for food and beverages.

What should health care providers discuss with patients and families about candies?
Any candy produced outside the United States, particularly in Mexico, Central America, and South America, may contain lead. Lead-containing candies may come in many forms, including hard candy, chewables, gels, liquids, and powders. These candies may not have an unusual taste; in fact, many forms of lead found in candies, such as lead acetate, have a sweet taste.

Where can I find a list of candies that have been tested for lead?
You can find a list of candies that have been tested for lead and pictures of recalled adulterated candies on this website. Candies made with tamarind or chili powders that are unlisted or untested by these resources may still contain lead. You may contact the California State Health Department or your local or state Childhood Lead Poisoning Prevention Program for updated information. Patients and families should be counseled against the ingestion of any candy with a suspicious origin. A blood lead level is the most readily available method to evaluate lead exposure.

What are symptoms of lead poisoning in children?
Children can be poisoned by lead and may not look or act sick. Many children who are lead poisoned look and act healthy. Occasionally, vague symptoms may be mistaken for other illnesses such as stomach upset or flu. As a result lead poisoning may go unrecognized. A blood lead test is the best way to determine the diagnosis of lead poisoning. Potential signs and symptoms of lead poisoning in children include:
• Tiredness or diminished energy levels
• Unexplained hyperactivity
• Reduced attentiveness
• Emotional lability
• Poor appetite and/or unexplained weight loss
• Sleeping disturbances
• Constipation or other non-specific abdominal complaints

For more information, contact your local County Lead prevention Program

Find your local CLPPP by clicking on the link below:
A-Z Index (by City or County) of Childhood Lead Poisoning Prevention Programs

Or contact the California Childhood Lead Poisoning Prevention Branch at 850 Marina Bay Parkway, Building P, Third Floor, Richmond, CA 94804 (510) 620-5600

Additional Links

See pictures of candies found to have lead in California

Sign up to get instant alerts about food, including lead in candy from the California Department of Public Health

View a list of safe candies by clicking here

Center for Disease Control and Prevention Lead Poisoning Prevention Program at the U.S. Food and Drug Administration