February 8, 2012
Consumer Reports tests of arsenic and lead levels in certain apple, grape juices raise concerns
WASHINGTON – Consumers Union, the policy and advocacy division of Consumer Reports, today announced its strong support for a bill introduced by U.S. Rep. Frank Pallone (N.J.) to direct the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to set specific limits on lead and total arsenic in fruit juices.
“This bill will go a long way toward protecting the public, especially children, from exposure to these toxins,” said Ami Gadhia, Senior Policy Counsel for Consumers Union.
In its January 2012 issue Consumer Reports published test results on arsenic and lead levels in 88 samples of apple and grape juices. Approximately 10 percent of the sampled juices contained arsenic levels that exceeded federal drinking-water standards. Most of the arsenic found in the testing was inorganic; inorganic arsenic is a known carcinogen. Consumer Reports also found that about 25 percent of the samples contained lead levels higher than the federal standards for bottled water.
Based on these test results, Consumers Union has called on the federal government to set formal standards to limit the amount of arsenic and lead in fruit juices.
“We’re grateful for this effort to ensure the public’s health and safety are protected,” Gadhia said.