- Recall Date: March 12, 2025
- Company Involved: FRUSELVA USA, Miami, FL
- Product Name: Good & Gather Baby Pea, Zucchini, Kale & Thyme Vegetable Puree
- Issue: Elevated levels of lead
- Product Details: 4 oz. pouch, sold for infants 6+ months
- Action: Consumers should stop using/selling affected products and check lot numbers
Want know more about this recall? Read below!
What happened?
On March 12, 2025, FRUSELVA USA initiated a recall of 25,600 units of Good & Gather Baby Vegetable Puree, sold exclusively at Target stores nationwide. Why the panic? Elevated levels of lead were found in the product.
The discovery came during routine testing, which revealed lead contamination in two specific lots of the product. While this is a Class II recall (meaning temporary or reversible health effects are expected, not severe injury), the risks are still serious—especially for the tiniest tummies.
Product information
Brand | Product Name | Size | UPC | Best By Date | Issue |
Good & Gather | Baby Pea, Zucchini, Kale & Thyme Vegetable Puree | 4 oz | 1 91907-99314 1 | Dec 07 & 09, 2025 | Lead contamination |
What caused the issue?
The issue stems from elevated levels of lead discovered in the Good & Gather Baby Pea, Zucchini, Kale & Thyme Vegetable Puree. Lead can sneak in through the supply chain, often at the agricultural or manufacturing level.
Lead contamination often occurs in the soil where produce is grown. Crops like peas and leafy greens are particularly susceptible since they absorb minerals—and unfortunately, heavy metals—from the earth. It can also enter through:
- Contaminated water used during irrigation
- Packaging materials or machinery
- Poor testing or lack of monitoring by suppliers or processors
Customers at risk
- Infants and toddlers, whose bodies absorb lead more efficiently and are still developing
- Pregnant women, due to risks of developmental harm to the fetus
- Young children under the age of 6, who may show no immediate symptoms but suffer long-term damage
Symptoms of lead exposure
Lead poisoning can be subtle and develop over time. Symptoms may include:
- Developmental delays
- Lower IQ and learning difficulties
- Abdominal pain and constipation
- Fatigue or lethargy
- Irritability or behavior issues
- Vomiting
- Seizures (in severe cases)
Keep in mind: a child may not appear sick, even if lead exposure is occurring.
10 common questions you might have
1. Is this product safe if my child already ate some?
If your child consumed the product, don’t panic. Lead’s effects depend on the amount and duration of exposure. Contact your pediatrician to discuss possible testing for lead levels.
2. How do I know if my product is affected?
Check the Lot Numbers 4169 and 4167 and Best By dates: Dec 07 and Dec 09, 2025 on the pouch. If your product matches, dispose of it.
3. What should I do with the recalled pouch?
Do not use it. You can discard it safely or return it to the store if returns are accepted. Check with FRUSELVA or Target for refund instructions.
4. Are there any confirmed illnesses?
As of now, no illnesses have been reported. The recall is precautionary based on lab results.
5. How can lead get into baby food?
Lead can contaminate crops via soil, water, and processing equipment—especially in vegetables grown close to the ground.
6. Is all Good & Gather baby food recalled?
No. This recall is specific to the Pea, Zucchini, Kale & Thyme variety with the affected lot numbers.
7. Can lead exposure from one pouch harm my child?
Unlikely from one-time exposure, but it’s best to consult a doctor if you’re concerned or notice any symptoms.
8. Will I get a refund or replacement?
Contact the brand or retailer. In many cases, Target or FRUSELVA USA may offer a refund.
9. How can I test for lead exposure?
Your child’s doctor can perform a simple blood test to check lead levels.
10. What is the FDA doing about this?
The FDA classified this as a Class II recall and is monitoring the situation closely. They continue to investigate and audit manufacturers for compliance.
Here’s what you should do
- Check your pantry: Look for Lot Numbers 4169 and 4167
- Best By Dates: Dec 09, 2025 and Dec 07, 2025
- Where to look: Find lot info near the pouch’s top seal
- Do not use, sell, or distribute the affected product
- Questions? Contact FRUSELVA USA or visit the FDA recall page
Behind the brand
FRUSELVA USA, based in Miami, specializes in manufacturing fruit and vegetable-based purees and snacks for babies and toddlers. They’re a co-manufacturer working with major retailers—like Target—under private label brands.
Unfortunately, this isn’t the first food recall related to contamination concerns:
- On November 18, 2024, IHA Beverage announced a voluntary recall of its Super Cinnamon Powder 4oz due to elevated lead levels, as identified by routine testing conducted by the Arkansas Department of Health.
- On January 27, 2025, the New York Wholesale Group initiated a recall after tests by the Connecticut Department of Consumer Protection revealed elevated lead levels in Zaarah Herbals Shatavari Powder.
“In today’s rapidly evolving food space—especially in categories like baby food and plant-based products—quality control isn’t just a checklist item; it’s the backbone of consumer trust. From sourcing vegetables to sealing the pouch, every stage demands strict testing, constant supplier oversight, and clear communication. A single missed step can trigger recalls, shake customer confidence, and damage a brand’s hard-earned reputation. In an industry where safety and transparency go hand in hand, diligence isn’t optional—it’s essential.” — Eran Mizrahi, CEO of Source86
Ensuring safe eats
While this recall is limited to two lots, it raises big-picture questions: How are ingredient suppliers ensuring the safety of raw materials? What testing protocols are in place for heavy metals like lead?
For co-mans, private label brands, and importers, it’s a wake-up call.
- Ensuring ingredient traceability is more crucial than ever
- Brands must maintain rigorous testing standards from soil to shelf
- Recalls—even small ones—can shake consumer trust
Have questions about sourcing safe, high-quality ingredients? Contact us today or explore our range of rigorously tested products. Together, we can build a safer, more reliable food supply chain!
