Walmart has recalled nearly 10,000 cases of apple juice due to high arsenic levels. Refresco Beverages initiated the voluntary recall on August 15, but the FDA recently tightened the classification.

The recall involves 9,535 cases of Great Value’s 8-ounce bottles of apple juice, sold in six-packs. The product contained 13.2 parts per billion (ppb) of arsenic, which is above the limit of 10 ppb. The product was available at Walmart stores in 25 states, including Puerto Rico and the District of Columbia. The recall now has a Class II designation from the FDA, meaning exposure may cause temporary or medically reversible health consequences.

“The health and safety of our customers is always our highest priority,” Walmart spokeswoman Molly Blakeman said in a statement published by the Associated Press. She added that the product had been removed from stores and they were investigating with the supplier.

What is arsenic?

Arsenic is an element that occurs naturally in the environment, such as water, soil and air, according to the National Institute of Environmental & Health Sciences. It can get into food. Both organic and inorganic arsenic are toxic to humans, with inorganic arsenic considered more dangerous. According to the FDA, exposure has been linked to cancer, cardiovascular and neurodevelopmental disorders, diabetes and adverse birth outcomes. The FDA also says fetuses and young children are more vulnerable due to their size and metabolism.

Although the FDA says it is impossible to eliminate arsenic from the food supply, it regulates and monitors the arsenic content of some products.

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