Surrey, B.C. – Fraser Health has issued a public health warning regarding unauthorized Ayurvedic medicines sold at All in One Wholesale Cash and Carry in Surrey, cautioning that these products may contain dangerous levels of heavy metals such as lead, mercury, and arsenic.
The warning comes after a local case of lead poisoning was linked to the purchase of Ayurvedic medicines from the store, located at 107-12815 85th Avenue, Surrey. Upon investigation, Fraser Health found that the business had imported and stocked unauthorized Ayurvedic products, some of which were tested and confirmed to have high levels of toxic heavy metals. All unapproved products on-site have been seized.
Health Risks and Symptoms
Exposure to heavy metals, particularly lead, can cause severe health issues. Symptoms of lead poisoning range from mild effects such as fatigue, headaches, abdominal pain, and constipation to more severe conditions like seizures, muscle weakness, and neurological damage. Long-term exposure can lead to high blood pressure, kidney damage, cardiovascular diseases, and serious developmental issues in children. Pregnant women exposed to lead face risks of reduced fetal growth and preterm birth.
What Consumers Should Do :
Fraser Health urges anyone who has purchased Ayurvedic medicines from this store to stop using them immediately and monitor for symptoms of lead poisoning. Consumers are advised to:
• Check product approval: Ayurvedic medicines should have an eight-digit Natural Product Number (NPN) or Drug Identification Number (DIN) issued by Health Canada.
• Dispose safely: If you have any unauthorized products, discard them immediately.
• Monitor health symptoms: If you experience any signs of lead poisoning, seek medical attention.
• Call for assistance: Contact the BC Drug and Poison Information Centre at 604-682-5050 or 1-800-567-8911 if symptoms arise.
• Keep the product for testing: Do not throw out the product if you suspect contamination. Store it securely in case Public Health requires it for further investigation.