Core Viewpoint - The incident involving a kindergarten using lead-contaminated additives in food has raised significant concerns about food safety, particularly regarding the alarming levels of lead detected in children's blood [1][4][17]. Group 1: Blood Lead Levels and Health Risks - A staggering 233 out of 251 children tested showed abnormal blood lead levels, with only 18 children having normal levels [4]. - The blood lead levels of two staff members reached 395 and 500 µg/L, far exceeding the adult reference limit of 200 µg/L in China [4][12]. - Among 74 children tested elsewhere, 70 showed elevated blood lead levels, with 22 children between 200-300 µg/L, 30 between 300-400 µg/L, 15 between 400-500 µg/L, and 3 above 500 µg/L [4][12]. Group 2: Testing Methodology and Anomalies - Discrepancies in blood lead levels were noted, with some children testing normal in the kindergarten's locality while others tested high elsewhere [6][7]. - Blood lead testing can vary based on sampling methods, and the presence of lead dust on skin can lead to false positives in fingerstick tests [8][10]. Group 3: Historical Context and Regulatory Standards - Historically, lead exposure has been significantly reduced in many countries due to regulations banning leaded gasoline and paint [25][28]. - The current reference values for blood lead levels in China are considered outdated and lenient compared to international standards, with the World Health Organization recommending a maximum of 50 µg/L [20][21]. Group 4: Sources of Lead Contamination - The investigation revealed that the kindergarten used colored additives in food, with lead levels in some products exceeding 1000 ppm, which is higher than the limits for industrial paints [37][38]. - The potential use of lead-based pigments, such as chrome yellow, in food preparation raises serious concerns about the sources of these additives [40][42]. Group 5: Global Comparisons and Case Studies - Similar incidents of lead contamination in food products have been documented globally, including cases in Hungary and Bangladesh, where spices were found to contain lead due to illegal additives [48][56]. - The case of lead contamination in spices from South Asia highlights the ongoing risks associated with food safety and the need for stringent monitoring [61][62].