FDA would set toxic metal limits in baby food

What does this do?

This bill would require the federal government to set legal limits on four toxic metals — lead, arsenic, cadmium, and mercury — in baby and toddler food and in fruit and vegetable purees and juices. Those limits would be reviewed and updated at least every four years. Foods that exceed the limits, or come from companies that fail to follow testing and recordkeeping rules, could be declared legally adulterated and subject to a mandatory recall.

Who does it affect?

Manufacturers, processors, and importers of baby food, toddler food, and fruit and vegetable purees and juices would need to follow new testing and recordkeeping rules. Parents of infants and young children are the intended beneficiaries of the new safety requirements.

Why does it matter?

If a company does not follow the rules, its products can be labeled adulterated and removed from the market. The FDA would also gain clearer authority to order mandatory recalls of unsafe products.

Where does it stand?