Updated February 2012
From 2005 to 2011, FDA analyzed 142 samples of pear juice and pear juice concentrate. Of these, 23 had levels of inorganic arsenic at or above 23 parts per billion (ppb), the level of concern for inorganic arsenic in pear juice. In each of these cases, product was recalled (9), refused entry into the United States (11), or the company received a warning letter (3).
In those samples where pear juice concentrate was analyzed, a conversion calculation was used to convert the arsenic (total and individual arsenical species) concentrations in the pear juice concentrate to respective concentrations in single strength pear juice. In cases where the single strength concentration for total arsenic was greater than 23 ppb that sample was further analyzed for inorganic arsenic, and in certain cases, organic arsenic (monomethylarsonic acid (MMA) and dimethylarsinic acid (DMA)) concentrations.
FDA is interested in minimizing public exposure to this contaminant and is considering setting a guidance level for inorganic arsenic in pear juice and pear juice concentrate.
In updating this chart, we determined that the original chart posted in October 2011, did not contain the results for 26 samples, including the 23 samples that resulted in recalls, refused entry, or issuance of a warning letter. We are developing new procedures now to ensure that future postings capture all sample results.