How Did Arsenic Get Into Apple Juice at Sunnyside Food Processing Plant?

The USFDA (United States Food and Drug Administration) has warned a Sunnyside food processor after inorganic arsenic was found in some apple juice concentrate during testing.

The juice never made it to market, and was potentially caused by unsanitary preparation conditions. The Administration also warned them in a letter against storing apples outside for months at a time, potentially allowing mold to grow. The Administration letter cited some unsanitary conditions at Valley Processing, which led to the arsenic. According to the letter:

"Inorganic arsenic is a toxic substance and prolonged exposure to high levels of inorganic arsenic is associated with cancer, skin lesions, developmental effects, cardiovascular disease, neurotoxicity, and diabetes in humans"

The letter, dated June 2 of this year, also said storing the apples and possibly other fruit outside could cause mold to grow, especially in rainy weather. The company has to reply to the letter with plans to rectify the situations and allegations made by the inspectors. No known issues or health hazards were reported in connection with the deficiencies claimed in the inspection process.