SACRAMENTO – Dr. Ron Chapman, director of the California Department of Public Health, on Tuesday warned consumers not to eat Roopal Swad candy imported from India after tests conducted by CDPH found unacceptable levels of lead.

Consumers in possession of the candy should discard it immediately, Chapman reported.

Recent analysis of this candy by CDPH determined that Roopal Swad candy contained as much as 0.18 parts per million (ppm) of lead.

California considers candies with lead levels in excess of 0.10 ppm to be contaminated.

Roopal Swad candy is imported and distributed by India Imports & Exports Inc. in Los Angeles, which initiated the voluntary recall.

CDPH is currently working with the distributor to ensure that the contaminated candies are removed from the market place.

Sold in a 7-ounce (200 gram) clear plastic package, the candy is visible through the package and wrapped in silver foil with a dark brown design. The package label is yellow with the brand name “Roopal” at the top in a red oval. The words “Swad Candy” appear in the middle of the package.

Pregnant women and parents of children who may have eaten this candy should consult their physician or health care provider to determine if medical testing is needed. Information, including photos, is available on the CDPH Web site at the Roopal Swad Candy Imported From India Due to High Levels of Lead page.

Consumers who find this candy for sale should call the CDPH Complaint Hotline at 1-800-495-3232.

For more information about lead poisoning, contact your county childhood lead poisoning prevention program or public health department. Additional information is available on the CDPH Childhood Lead Poisoning Prevention page.