Politics & Government

Red Vines Licorice Found to Contain Lead

Some of the candy is tainted with the deadly metal, according to state health officials.

Maybe they should call it Lead Vines licorice?

According to the California Department of Public Health, some bags of Red Vines Black Licorice Twists have tested positive for lead.

Consumers should avoid 1-pound bags with the phrase "best before 02/04/13" stamped on them, the CDPH warned in a statement released Wednesday afternoon.

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Health officials said the candy "contained as much as 0.33 parts per million of lead. This concentration of lead could provide up to 13.2 micrograms of lead per serving. Children under 6 years of age should not consume more than 6.0 micrograms of lead per day from all dietary sources."

If you're pregnant or suspect your child has eaten these candies, the CDPH recommends consulting a doctor.

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Red Vines are manufactured by Union City-based American Licorice Co., which has voluntarily recalled the candies, the CDPH said.

If you spot some for sale, the health department asks you to call 1‑800-495-3232.


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