A consumer advocacy group, Consumer Reports (CR), issued a warning about Lunchables. They found concerning levels of lead, sodium, and cadmium in these snacks. CR tested 12 variations of Lunchables and similar lunch kits. The tests revealed significant amounts of lead and cadmium. These substances are known for harmful health effects. The World Health Organization has classified cadmium as a carcinogen.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention state there is no safe lead level for children. The sodium content in these snacks is also high. It ranges from 460 to 740 milligrams per serving. This is nearly 25% to 50% of the recommended daily sodium intake for children. CR found harmful phthalates in almost all the tested kits. Phthalates are chemicals in plastics. They are linked to health issues like reproductive problems, diabetes, and some cancers.
CR also examined Lunchables in the National School Lunch Program. They found higher sodium levels in these versions. For example, the school version of the turkey and cheddar lunch had 930 milligrams of sodium. The pizza kit for schools had 700 milligrams.
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Kraft Heinz, the maker of Lunchables, responded to the findings. They stated that Lunchables are a good source of protein. They also mentioned efforts to improve the nutritional profile of the products. For instance, they reduced sodium in the crackers by 26%.
CR has started a petition. They want the USDA to remove Lunchables from the National School Lunch Program. The petition had over 12,000 signatures by Tuesday night. Brian Ronholm, CR's director of food policy, said Lunchables are not a healthy option for kids.
The USDA responded to the concerns. They stated they focus on the overall nutritional content of school meals. They do not allow or disallow specific food items. Schools are expected to balance high-sodium items with lower-sodium ones on other days. The agency is encouraging more scratch-cooked and locally sourced foods in schools.