Publix recalls baby food sold in more than 1,400 stores after testing finds elevated lead levels

Publix recalls baby food sold in more than 1,400 stores after testing finds elevated lead levels

Publix, one of the largest grocery store chains in the United States, has initiated a voluntary recall of certain baby food products due to the potential presence of elevated lead levels. The recall was announced on May 9 and affects the GreenWise Pear, Kiwi, Spinach & Pea Baby Food produced by Bowman Andros LLC [1].

The recalled products were sold in 4-ounce plastic pouches and distributed to Publix stores in eight southern states: Alabama, Florida, Georgia, Kentucky, North Carolina, South Carolina, Tennessee, and Virginia [1]. The affected products have a best-used-by date of November 1, 2025, and can be identified by the Global Trade Item Number (GTIN) 41415-00901 [1].

The recall was triggered by routine sampling conducted by Publix in coordination with the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) [1]. The testing found lead levels at 13.4 parts per billion, which exceeds the FDA's recommended limit of 10 parts per billion for baby food products [2].

No illnesses have been reported as of the recall announcement, and all potentially impacted products have been removed from store shelves [1]. Consumers who have purchased the affected baby food can return it to their local Publix store for a full refund [1].

This recall follows a similar incident in March where Target recalled more than 25,000 packages of its store brand Good & Gather Baby Pea, Zucchini, Kale & Thyme Vegetable Puree due to elevated lead levels [2].

The presence of lead in baby food is a growing concern, with studies showing that 95% of tested baby foods contain one or more toxic heavy metals [1]. The FDA has implemented measures to reduce lead levels in baby food, including guidance for industry with action levels for lead in processed food intended for babies and children [1].

References:
[1] https://www.usatoday.com/story/money/food/2025/05/19/baby-food-recall-publix-suspected-lead-greenwise/83728744007/
[2] https://apnews.com/article/publix-greenwise-pouches-lead-db859fb7af8b5de0a2471a4f8d2e82ba