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In response to reports of elevated lead in certain vitamins, the US FDA tested 324 multi-vitamins manufactured for infants, children, pregnant women, and women. Stunningly, 99% had traces of lead. The FDA found that all were well below what they deem “tolerable intake levels,” but that’s not completely reassuring. Researchers have increasingly been emphasizing that there may be no safe level of exposure for children and developing babies. California is the only state that regulates lead in supplements and, by their standards, 15% of the vitamins tested by the FDA exceed safe levels and should be labeled.

That said, here are two things to keep in mind about lead:

1. It may be impossible to ensure that products are 100% lead-free, because even fruits, vegetables and dairy products can be contaminated with lead, which can be found in soil or water.

2. No one leads a lead-free life. On average, most American adults are exposed to about 3 micrograms of lead through food, beverages, and other sources. Most of the vitamins tested fell well below this average level everyone is exposed to daily

Still, lead is a potent neurotoxicant and it is wise to reduce unnecessary exposures. Since vitamins and other supplements aren't required to undergo the same testing as medicines, choosing a product is a gamble. Here are some steps you can take to help you pick a better product, says David Schardt, a senior nutritionist at the Center for Science in the Public Interest, a nonprofit consumer advocacy group in Washington, D.C. He recommends:

• Choosing well-known mainstream brands by companies that have a lot at stake.
• Buying from large, trusted retailers, not unknown sellers on the Internet.
• Looking on the bottle for a stamp from USP, NSF or ConsumerLab.com. While the stamp doesn't guarantee the product is safe and effective, it does indicate that the manufacturer has submitted the product for testing to show that it contains what is stated on the label.
• Not spending a fortune on vitamins. Pricey products toting all sorts of "extras" aren't necessary and may be trouble.

Healthy Child also recommends referring to the FDA’s survey results to find out if any vitamins you take were tested and to identify which products contain the lowest levels of lead.

In addition, have your child’s blood tested annually for lead and have your blood tested if you are planning on getting pregnant.

Resources:

FDA’s full report
A Vitamin A Day May Do More Harm than Good

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