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Lead contamination in imported candies and their wrappers.

Article Excerpt
Abstract. -- The dangers of ingesting lead, especially in childhood, are well documented. Some studies, recently reported in the media, have found a correlation between Mexican candies and cases of childhood lead poisoning. A few researchers have found lead in some brands of imported Mexican candies sold in the United States; it has not been conclusively determined whether the lead contamination originates in the candy itself or the wrapper. This ongoing project utilizes atomic absorption spectrophotometry to test several brands of candies, as well as their packaging material, for lead content.

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During the last few decades, researchers and medical practitioners have begun to appreciate the clear dangers associated with lead poisoning, especially in children. This increased awareness has raised childhood lead poisoning to the position of a public health threat that needs to be addressed and monitored. Lead is now known to be detrimental to nearly every organ system. It has been documented to cause problems with the kidneys, the blood, liver, reproductive organs, and hearing (USEPA 1985). Its ingestion has been linked to problems with neurological, and cognitive development. Children living with the effects of lead ingestion suffer from a reduced IQ, behavioral problems, and a slowed development (Lidsky & Schneider 2006). For several reasons, children are at a greater risk for lead poisoning than adults. First, a child's stomach readily absorbs lead when ingested. Also, children are more likely to place non-food items in their mouths. And finally, children are in a vulnerable stage of development that places their bodies at a greater risk of damage from lead poisoning (USEPA 1985).

Traditionally, childhood lead poisoning has widely been associated with ingesting lead paint (Jones & Moore 1999). During the 1970's, the United States government, along with some industries, began a concerted effort to combat childhood lead poisoning. The pillars of these programs were the restriction of lead paint,...

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