Frozen chicken nuggets may contain elevated lead levels

USDA's Food Safety and Inspection Service issued a public health alert after New York State testing reported elevated lead in Great Value dinosaur-shaped frozen chicken nuggets; the product is no longer sold at retail and FSIS is continuing an investigation.

The USDA Food Safety and Inspection Service issued a public health alert about certain frozen, dinosaur-shaped, ready-to-eat chicken nuggets sold under Walmart's Great Value brand. New York State Department of Health testing reported elevated lead levels in the product. The alert identifies Great Value Dino Chicken Breast Nuggets in 29-ounce bags (best if used by FEB 10 2027; lot code 0416DPO1215; establishment P44164). FSIS noted no recall has been issued because the product is no longer available for purchase. Key points: - FSIS issued a public health alert covering Great Value dinosaur-shaped frozen chicken nuggets distributed to Walmart stores nationwide. - New York State Department of Health testing reported lead levels up to about five times the FDA's interim reference level for children. - FSIS stated the product is no longer sold at retail, so no recall was issued, and the agency is continuing its investigation. - Walmart has announced it is offering full refunds, and FSIS warned additional products could be added to the alert. Summary: Reported testing indicated lead concentrations above the FDA's interim reference level for children, which is relevant because lead can affect developing brains and nervous systems. FSIS has issued a public health alert and is continuing its investigation; the agency said additional products could be added to the alert and further details are undetermined at this time.