Maple Syrup Production Dangers

When thinking about the concerns of lead poisoning many people may think of paint chips or old pipes. However, many old machinery or tools can also contain lead as it was once widely used in many items.

Around this time each year many Missourians are tapping their maple trees to collect syrup. Sap from these trees and the trees themselves do not contain lead but there is a chance of contamination based on the equipment used and environmental factors. Sometimes these pieces of equipment such as evaporators, tanks, buckets, and spiles are items that have been passed down through generations and may contain lead in some form.  In some cases, places where the items have been soldered, the type of metal used to make the item and other factors can contribute to this.  Lead can also be introduced through elements such as wind kicking up roadside dirt or dust that contains lead. Syrup is slightly acidic so if it sits in a tank or bucket that contains lead it can draw the lead out of the product and into the syrup itself. It is recommended to use plastic equipment when possible.

Lead levels in syrup can not be determined by looking at it. In some cases, the lead may be taken out of the syrup during the filtering process. The sugar sand that builds up in the bottom of the batch often contains the most lead particles and the syrup should be tested after the final filtering. The only way to find out if lead is present in the syrup is by having the syrup tested to see if it meets Missouri requirements. If there is any concern for this, such as using older items or if the trees are in an area known for high lead exposure, the syrup should be sent for testing before consuming or selling.

For more specific information on what items may be affected please visit https://mapleresearch.org/wp-content/uploads/leadout.pdf

For more information on collecting maple syrup safely or selling it in Missouri please visit:

https://mdc.mo.gov/discover-nature/activities/maple-sugaring

https://extension.missouri.edu/media/wysiwyg/Extensiondata/Pub/pdf/commdm/dm3036.pdf

Jefferson County Rotary Clubs Donate Golf Tournament Proceeds to JCHD Mobile Program Serving Residents Struggling with Access to Healthcare

Jefferson County Health Department (JCHD) recently received a monetary donation of $7,150 from the Jefferson County Rotary Clubs, Inc. Benefit Golf Tournament. Jefferson County Rotary Clubs, Inc. held a benefit golf tournament on October 13th at Crystal Highlands Golf Course in Festus, MO. The event attracted 120 golfers and 39 sponsors, raising a total of $14,300. This was the 5th annual benefit golf tournament hosted by the Jefferson County Rotary Clubs and the fifth year they chose JCHD’s Mobile Wellness Program as one of the recipients of the proceeds from the tournament.

Donated funds go directly into the JCHD Mobile Wellness program, which provides healthcare services for Jefferson County residents who need it most. “We are grateful for the continued generosity of the Jefferson County Rotary Clubs,” states Jefferson County Health Department Executive Director Kelley Vollmar. “It’s rewarding to see such great community participation in support of a program that, in turn, provides vital health services to their friends and neighbors who may be struggling with access to care.”

“As in past years, we want to thank all the players, sponsors, and volunteers for participating in the 5 th Jefferson County Rotary Clubs Benefit Golf Tournament,” states Hillsboro Rotary Club President Doug Wright. “This year’s tournament was our most successful so far. It’s wonderful to see contributions will continue to have a powerful impact within our Jefferson County community.”

DHSS reports five childhood lead poisoning cases linked to recalled cinnamon applesauce pouches

The Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services (DHSS) has reported to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) five lead poisoning cases in children linked to an ongoing Food and Drug Administration (FDA) investigation that began on Nov. 2, 2023.

The nationwide effort to remove products from retail shelves is continuing. DHSS and local public health agencies are working to ensure these products are not available for sale in Missouri. Because these products have a long shelf life, parents and caregivers should ensure these products found in homes and facilities are discarded immediately. 

Lead is toxic to humans. Children under 6 and pregnant women are the highest risk groups for severe lead poisoning illness. Most children do not show obvious immediate symptoms. However, short-term exposure of high concentrations of lead could lead to symptoms such as headache, abdominal pain, vomiting and anemia. Long-term exposure of high levels could result in irritability, fatigue, muscle aches, constipation, brain fog, tremors, weight loss, behavioral issues and lowered IQ.

Immediate action items:

• Look for and dispose of products in your home.

• The recalled products have a long shelf life.

• Discard by emptying the pouch into the trash can to prevent others from consuming it.

• If you or your children have ever consumed these products, call your physician or local public health agency to discuss having blood lead levels tested.

Recalled cinnamon apple puree and applesauce products:

Information on lot codes and UPCs can be found in the firm's recall announcement.

• Recalled WanaBana apple cinnamon fruit puree pouches – including 3-packs.

• WanaBana apple cinnamon fruit puree pouches were sold nationally and are available through multiple retailers including Amazon, Dollar Tree and other online outlets.

• Recalled Schnucks-brand cinnamon-flavored applesauce pouches and variety pack.

• Schnucks-brand cinnamon-flavored applesauce pouches and variety pack were sold at Schnucks and Eatwell Markets grocery stores.

• Recalled Weis-brand cinnamon applesauce pouches.

• Weis-brand cinnamon applesauce pouches were sold at Weis grocery stores.

For more information about lead poisoning, visit health.mo.gov/lead.