The California Department of Public Health is warning consumers not to eat Ginger Candy imported from Vietnam after tests conducted by CDPH found the products contain levels of lead that exceed the state’s standards. Consumers in possession of this candy are urged to discard it immediately.

Recent analysis of this candy by CDPH determined that the Ginger Candy contained as much as 0.12 parts per million of lead. This concentration of lead could provide up to 10.21 micrograms of lead per serving. Children under six years of age should not consume more than 6.0 micrograms of lead per day from all dietary sources.

Ginger Candy is imported and distributed by Evershing International Trading, Inc., of San Jose. Evershing International initiated a voluntary recall and CDPH is currently working with the distributor to ensure that the contaminated candies are removed from the marketplace. Ginger Candy is sold in a 12-ounce clear plastic container. A white label with red lettering is on the lid of the container, and the name “Ginger Candy” appears in the center of the label. A drawing of a coconut tree appears at the top of the label. The product is pieces of dehydrated ginger coated in sugar, yellow in color, and visible through the container.

Pregnant women and parents of children who may have eaten this candy should consult their physician or health care provider to determine if medical testing is needed. Consumers who find this candy for sale should call the CDPH Complaint Hotline at 1800-495-3232. For more information about lead poisoning, contact your county childhood lead poisoning prevention program or public health department. Additional information is available at www.cdph.ca.gov.