Beech-Nut Rice Cereal recalled over inorganic arsenic concerns
A lone lot of Beech-Nut Stage 1, Single Grain Rice Cereal has been recalled by Beech-Nut Nutrition because according to the FDA, “it tested above the guidance level for naturally occurring inorganic arsenic set by the FDA…” These guidelines were put into place by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration in August of 2020.
Recalled Product:
Beech-Nut Stage 1, Single Grain RIce Cereal
UPC # 52200034705
Expiration Date - 01MAY2022
Product Codes - 103470XXXX and 093470XXXX
For some time now the FDA has “recognized'' the presence of naturally occurring inorganic arsenic in our soil, water, and food. In spite of these known concerns, inorganic arsenic is still very much a health hazard for young children. It’s also important to note that while naturally occurring inorganic arsenic was detected, it was “confirmed as being below the FDA guidance level…” And so far, no illnesses or injuries have been reported related to this recall.
In addition to the recall, Beech-Nut Nutrition is using this moment to get out of the single grain rice cereal business altogether. As the post on the FDA’s website explains, Beech-Nut’s ultimate concern centers around their ability to “consistently obtain rice flour well-below the FDA guidance level and Beech-Nut specifications for naturally occurring inorganic arsenic.”
If you’re in possession of the recalled product, you should dispose of it. You can also reach out to Beech-Nut at beechnut.com/riceceareal about a refund or exchange.
For more information on this recall, you can visit the FDA’s post about it here: https://bit.ly/3vp8144