Recently, a Congressional report found dangerously high levels of arsenic, cadmium, lead, and mercury in the retail distribution of products from several baby food companies. Because consuming large amounts of these toxic metals can lead to harmful medical conditions, the Federal Drug Administration (FDA) stepped in to address the allegations.  While this is certainly a cause for concern, it is important to understand that such metals are naturally occurring substances. For this reason, it can be hard to avoid them completely.  However, it is possible to minimize your child’s exposure by up to 80% by introducing variety into their diet, limiting their juice intake, and curbing how much rice they eat. One of the reasons I love Amara’s smoothie melts is because they are a terrific alternative to traditional rice puffs.