USDA Retracts Health Alert on Walmart Dinosaur-Shaped Chicken Nuggets After Testing

FSIS withdrew the alert after additional laboratory tests showed no elevated lead levels. Lead exposure can affect brain development in infants and young children, according to federal health authorities.

The product is marketed toward families with young children, and FSIS issued the alert to notify consumers who might still have the nuggets in their freezers, as the product was no longer available for sale.

Details The affected product is Great Value Fully Cooked Dino Shaped Chicken Breast Nuggets, sold in 29-ounce plastic bags containing approximately 36 pieces.

Packages have a Best If Used By date, lot code, and establishment number on the back. The nuggets were distributed to Walmart locations nationwide. No confirmed illnesses were reported in connection with the product when the alert was issued.

A public health alert differs from a formal recall and is used when a product is no longer on the market but may remain in consumers' homes.

Following the initial alert, additional testing was conducted, including retesting of the original sample.

All follow-up results showed no elevated lead levels. FSIS determined the original positive result was a false positive. FSIS coordinated with state officials before retracting the alert.

The agency stated that the product does not pose a public health risk. Consumers do not need to take any further action regarding the product. The retraction addresses potential concerns for households with young children and pregnant women, who are more vulnerable to lead exposure effects such as neurological and behavioral issues.