Red Vines black licorice recalled over high lead levels

LOS ANGELES (KABC) -- California health officials are warning consumers not to eat black licorice candies made by Red Vines because they contain too much lead.

According to California Department of Public Health (CDPH) Director Dr. Ron Chapman, tests found that packages with a best-before-date of Feb. 4, 2013 have lead levels that exceed state standards.

Analysis found that one serving of the candy could contain up to 13.2 micrograms of lead. The company has initiated a voluntary recall of the affected lot.

State officials say pregnant women and children under 6 years old should not consume more than 6 micrograms of lead per day.

The candies are sold in a one-pound package and are labeled "Black Licorice Twists" under the Red Vines label, manufactured and distributed by American Licorice Co. of Union City, Calif.

Consumers who find this product for sale should call the CDPH Complaint Hotline at 1 (800) 495-3232. You can find additional information about childhood lead poisoning prevention on the CDPH website.

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