Consumer Reports investigation finds 'concerning levels' of heavy metals in kids' fruit juices
Almost half of tested juices cause concern
Almost half of tested juices cause concern
A recent Consumer Reports study found concerning levels of arsenic, cadmium and lead in many kids' fruit juices. If consumed daily for long periods of time, the juices can be dangerous to both children and adults.
The group tested 45 fruit juices sold nationwide, including grape, apple, pear and fruit blends; in more than half, elevated levels of those three elements, also known as heavy metals, were found. According to , juices in some of the juice boxes most popular with kids were among the ones affected.
While these metals are naturally occurring and found in many foods, the climbing levels of metal pose a serious threat. According to James Dickerson, even small amounts of consumption could produce consequences. "In some cases, drinking just 4 ounces a day — or half a cup — is enough to raise concern," he said.
For the roughly 74 percent of children drinking at least one serving of juice daily, the dangerous metals can have a detrimental effect during their developmental years, Dr. Jennifer Lowry, chairperson of the American Academy of Pediatrics' Council on Environmental Health, told Consumer Report. But that doesn't leave parents out of the picture either.
“Heavy metals are things that can cause a variety of ailments in children and adults — everything from neurological issues to cancer," Dickerson said. "We certainly want to ensure that the industry continues to do a better job to reduce the presence of these in the products that we buy."
Juice manufacturers have the ability to lower these risks simply by changing how they source raw fruit, and how they process and package the juice, Dickerson said.
The investigation included countless beloved brands, including Whole Food's 365 Everyday Value, Juicy Juice, Honest Kids, Minute Maid, Welch's and more.
You can read the full report .