Consequently, the complaint has requested the sale of these products be suspended until a lead warning is made available on products. In addition, the companies named in this complaint could face fines up to $2,500 per day until this matter has been resolved.

Manufacturers are required to include a warning label in accordance with the Safe Drinking Water and Toxic Enforcement Act of 1986 or Proposition 65 as it is commonly referred to. California Law already mandates all businesses to give warnings on their products which contain chemicals known by the state to cause cancer or reproductive harm.

As a contaminant, lead is an extremely poisonous metal that can be especially harmful to nerve and blood cells. If it is consumed by young children, lead poisoning could result in possible blood and brain disorders, while long term exposure to lead by adults could evolve into more dangerous results such as comas, seizures or death. It is estimated that approximately 3.5 million Americans are afflicted by anemia, a blood condition primarily caused by lead.

In this instance, effects from lead contamination may be the direct result of water sources. Paint and other sources, such as soil and natural gases contain high levels of lead, which are then dumped and recycled into water that could then be utilized in the manufacturing process. Typically, lead seeps from pipes, solderings and faucets into water, which is caused by corrosion that is created through the wear and softening of pipes and the water’s acidity and temperature. In addition, an Associated Press investigation recently revealed at least 271 million pounds of waterways have been infected with hundreds of metals and toxins.

As a result of this lawsuit and a possible increase in government oversight, manufacturers of various vitamin brands will have to clean up their labeling processes and possibly re-secure their water sources in order to avoid further litigation or legal action from other districts or states in this alleged case.