Six Arrested After Over 200 Children Found With Elevated Blood Lead Levels in Kindergarten Scandal

Authorities in northwestern China have arrested six individuals after over 200 children were found to have elevated blood lead levels at a private kindergarten, Peixin Kindergarten. The situation prompted investigations into the matter, revealing that the lead exposure was caused by contaminated food served to the children, rather than any environmental factors. Initial blood tests by local health institutions had failed to provide accurate results, and further inspections of air, water, and soil in the region showed no signs of lead pollution.

The issue first arose on July 1 when local market regulators and police received alerts about the unusual blood lead levels among the students at Peixin Kindergarten. Out of the 251 children enrolled, 233 were tested and found to have elevated levels, with at least 201 subsequently requiring hospitalization. This alarming development has raised significant public concern about the impacts of lead exposure on children’s health, as recognized by the World Health Organization.

A dedicated investigation team conducted tests on 223 samples from Peixin and three other preschools, including food, water, and raw materials. It was discovered that kindergarten management instructed staff to adulterate food items with industrial pigments to enhance their visual appeal, posing serious health risks. Specific samples, such as a tricolor sponge cake and a corn roll containing sausage, showed lead levels drastically exceeding national safety standards, indicating systemic lapses in food safety governance.

Furthermore, the kindergarten operated without the necessary licenses, and local authorities failed to provide adequate oversight. Some officials may have accepted bribes from the kindergarten's investor. In response, disciplinary and criminal investigations have been launched against officials, including the provincial health commission head and Tianshui's mayor. After treatment, most affected children have been discharged, with a sharp decline in their blood lead levels. The government has committed to covering the medical expenses and established a monitoring program for the children's ongoing recovery.

The Gansu provincial government has publicly apologized for these failures, vowing to implement "zero tolerance" policies towards regulatory lapses and to enhance food safety and health oversight in educational institutions throughout the region.