Chinese Kindergarten Used Paint as Food Coloring, Causing Lead Poisoning in Over 200 Children

Over 200 children at Heshi Peixin Kindergarten in Tianshui, Gansu Province, China, are suffering from lead poisoning in a shocking Chinese kindergarten lead poisoning scandal. The case surfaced in early July 2025 after kitchen staff used paint pigments as food coloring.

Authorities confirmed 233 children had elevated blood lead levels, with more than 200 hospitalized. Parents are demanding answers as investigations unfold.

Chinese Kindergarten Lead Poisoning Case Exposes Shocking Negligence

Local officials say the principal and a school investor approved using colorful paint to make meals more visually appealing. Two contaminated foods — red date cake and sausage corn rolls — had lead levels over 2,000 times the legal limit. The paint was clearly marked non-edible. Eight suspects, including the principal, are in custody. Parents first noticed symptoms months ago.

poisoning has led to alarming symptoms among the children, including blackened teeth, hair loss, and other serious health concerns.

The issue came to light after worried parents took their children to Xi’an for blood tests. Reports showed severe lead poisoning in many cases. Some children had blood lead levels over 450 micrograms per liter — China’s threshold for severe toxicity. One mother reported her child had a level of 528, despite previous “normal” test claims from local authorities.

Symptoms, Cover-Ups, and Anguished Parents in Chinese Kindergarten Lead Poisoning

Many parents observed signs for months: stomach aches, loss of appetite, and behavioral changes. One mother said she was misled by false test results in Tianshui. Some parents believe the poisoning could be chronic, pointing to prolonged exposure. They demand transparency and accountability, fearing long-term developmental damage.

Lead poisoning can cause serious health issues in children, including damaging brain development, affecting behavior, lowering IQ, and leading to long-term cognitive and physical problems if untreated.

The mayor of Tianshui has vowed full treatment and supervision, but trust in local governance is eroding. Past scandals, such as the 2008 melamine milk crisis, still haunt China. Social media users are calling for harsh penalties and stronger food safety enforcement. “Children are the hope of every family,” one Weibo user wrote.

Calls for Reform as China Faces Another Food Safety Scandal

Food safety remains a serious concern. Experts say incidents like this erode public confidence and create a deeper trust crisis. Despite stricter food laws, enforcement remains weak. Yanzhong Huang, a global health expert, says that transparency and serious investigations are essential for public trust.

Without it, future violations will continue. The Chinese kindergarten lead poisoning case is another tragic reminder.

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