Toxic Candy found in San Francisco District

Toxic candy is still available in local stores; health officials call for legislation
By Rory Brown

Despite the efforts of government regulators and a group of local kids, candies that may contain dangerous levels of lead are still for sale in many of the Mission District's corner stores and markets.

Although some specific brands have been recalled, consumers have been warned about only a fraction of the candies that have been found to contain lead, and store owners remain oblivious or indifferent to the adverse health effects the products could have on children. Dozens of candies have registered high for lead on government tests. Most of them are imported from Mexico and contain chili powder or tamarind (see "Kids Against Candy," 6/1/05).

"These candies are harmful and dangerous to the children that eat them. No amount of lead is good for children, or anyone," Leticia Medina of the San Francisco Department of Public Health (DPH) told the Bay Guardian. High levels of lead can damage children's kidneys and nervous systems, as well as cause learning disabilities.