An incident at the private "Peixin" preschool in China's Gansu province has captured nationwide attention. What was initially meant to bring joy to children through colorful food decorations unfortunately caused serious harm to the health of hundreds of children.
This year, in the kindergarten located in Tianshui city, lead poisoning was recorded in 233 children. This has become a tragic consequence of severe negligence and lack of control in the field of food safety.
Danger disguised as treats: red date cake and sausage corn bun
Tests revealed that the lead content in the red date cake and the corn sausage bun consumed by the children was thousands of times higher than the national safety standard. Specifically, the red date cake had 1052 mg/kg and the corn bun 1340 mg/kg of lead, whereas the permissible limit is only 0.5 mg/kg.
It is believed that the coloring substances used for food decoration were purchased online, and the packaging clearly stated "not intended for consumption."
Parents concerned: poison weakening children
Since March, many children have complained of stomach pain, leg aches, and loss of appetite — signs of lead accumulation in the body. Parents, alarmed by these symptoms, began taking their children to hospitals for check-ups.
One parent, Mr. Liu, reported that he took his child to a hospital in Xi'an. The child was prescribed 10 days of treatment and medication under medical supervision.
Kitchen camera footage: tragic actions recorded
Investigations by local police revealed kitchen surveillance footage showing staff adding paint to food. These videos were broadcast on national television.
Currently, the kindergarten principal and seven others, including the main investor, are being investigated for "producing toxic and harmful food."
Why is lead poisoning dangerous?
Lead is a heavy metal that gradually accumulates in the human body, posing a significant risk, especially for children. It negatively affects the liver, nervous system, digestion, and immune system.
Lead poisoning can cause anemia, learning difficulties, delayed mental development, and even permanent neurological damage.
Why did this tragedy occur?
Experts emphasize that this was not just an isolated failure but a reflection of broader shortcomings in food safety oversight.
Tianshui mayor Liu Lijiang acknowledged the incident publicly and stated that serious lessons would be learned to prevent similar cases in the future.
What actions is the government taking?
According to Chinese state media, a special monitoring group has been formed by the central government and the Ministry of Health. Sanitary inspections in preschools and food supply chains have been intensified.
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