For years, toxic metals such as lead and arsenic have been found in baby food, posing risks to children’s brain development. Despite the dangers, the baby food industry has remained unregulated. This is set to change in Maryland, where a new law, inspired by the 7News I-Team’s investigations, has been signed by Governor Wes Moore.
Maryland is now leading the nation in efforts to protect infants from harmful toxins in their food. The new law mandates that baby food manufacturers test their products for heavy metals like lead and arsenic, which are known to be harmful to children’s brains. Eventually, companies will also need to disclose the contents of their products to consumers.
Jason Nunez, Chief of Staff for Delegate Deni Taveras, played a key role in crafting the legislation. “I was watching the news, I saw your story and right away, I knew that we needed to act,” Nunez said.
The investigation into toxic metals in baby food began years ago. Despite awareness of contamination since 2017, neither the FDA nor Congress has acted to require testing or limit these dangerous substances in baby food.
Nunez emphasized the need for federal action. “They have to step it up. Children are being hurt. They eat this food every single day,” he said.
The law is named after Rudy Callahan, a young boy who suffered lead poisoning from eating cinnamon applesauce containing lead levels 2,000 times above proposed safety limits. Rudy’s mother, Sarah, expressed her satisfaction with the new law. “I’m really happy that we can advocate on Rudy’s behalf, and that his situation and his experience can be turned into a law,” she said.
Meeting with the Callahans motivated Nunez to act swiftly. “We work quick,” he said. “Especially when one of your own gets hurt.”
Following Maryland’s lead, New York and Pennsylvania are preparing to introduce similar legislation. California was the first state to pass a baby food safety bill, which took effect in January this year.
Meanwhile, the House and Senate have introduced bills to grant the FDA more authority to regulate toxic metals in baby food. Developments on Capitol Hill will be closely monitored.
