Consumer Reports finds heavy metals in fruit juices

Jan. 30 (UPI) -- Testing by Consumer Reports reveals concerning levels of arsenic and lead, in addition to unhealthy levels of sugar, according to a report published Wednesday.

"In some cases, drinking just 4 ounces a day -- or half a cup -- is enough to raise concern," James Dickerson, chief scientific officer at Consumer Report, said in a news release.CR said half of the 45 brand name apple, grape and pear juices it tested have high levels of the metals, suggesting parents should give their children less of the beverages.

Heavy metals can lower the IQ levels of children and put them at risk for behavioral problems, cancer and type 2 diabetes, according to CR. 

"Exposure to these metals early on can affect their whole life trajectory," said Jennifer Lowry, chairperson of the American Academy of Pediatrics' Council on Environmental Health. "There is so much development happening in their first years of life."

CONTINUE READING ON www.upi.com