We already know that fruit drinks are loaded with sugar and calories. Did you know they may also contain potentially harmful levels of arsenic, cadmium, and lead?
An investigation in Consumer Reports tested 45 popular fruit drinks sold across the country. They looked at apple, grape, pear, and fruit blends available in pouches/boxes and bottles. In almost half of them, there were elevated levels of heavy metals. Kids can be vulnerable when it comes to heavy metals; it can cause everything from low IQ to behavioral issues. Elevated levels of heavy metals can also affect adults.
Want to know how the juice you're serving measures up? Check out the infographic at the bottom of this report. It lists which brands are "better alternatives" and which ones are "potential risks." Note: Even some organic varieties were listed as potential risks.
Experts say kids under 1 shouldn't have any fruit drinks. For older kids, moderation is key. Parents should also limit foods known to have elevated metal levels, which include rice, chocolate and sweet potatoes.
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