Consumer Reports is warning that a widely used household blender, the Black+Decker PowerCrush BL1230, may pose a potential safety risk involving lead exposure, particularly for families preparing food for infants and young children.

Investigation and Findings

The warning follows a review of a report submitted to federal safety officials involving a young child who had elevated blood lead levels. Local health officials investigating the source of exposure believed a blender that was used daily to prepare baby food may have contributed to the contamination.

Consumer Reports safety experts said no material that comes into contact with food should contain lead, describing it as a toxic heavy metal that can be especially harmful to children. Even low levels of lead exposure can have serious developmental effects and long-term health consequences, particularly in young children and infants.

Consumer Reports is urging consumers to evaluate the appliances they use in food preparation, especially those used for making baby food or infant meals. The organization recommends caution when using products that may contain materials not intended for direct food contact and encourages families to review manufacturer information where available.

Original reporting: WOWO News/Talk (Fort Wayne) — read the source article.