Lead Found in Popular Boba Drinks: What Lubbock Residents Need to Know

Boba tea lovers in Lubbock might want to think twice before grabbing their next cup. Recent testing conducted by Consumer Reports revealed trace amounts of lead in some boba pearls. The discovery has sparked statewide discussions about food safety, imported ingredients, and consumer protection here in Texas.

Read More: Safety Alert: Wood Fragments Found In Popular Frozen Items

What Is Boba and Why Lead Might Be in It

Boba, also known as tapioca pearls, is typically made from cassava starch imported from Asia. Cassava, a root vegetable, can absorb heavy metals like lead from the soil. According to Consumer Reports:

Lead is naturally found in the Earth’s crust. There’s also significant lead contamination in much of the world’s soil due to industrial pollution and the past use of leaded gasoline and lead-based pesticides. 

The Health Risks of Lead Exposure

Lead is a toxic metal that can cause serious health issues, especially for young children, pregnant women, and older adults. Even small amounts can lead to developmental delays, learning problems, and high blood pressure. Even though the amounts found by Consumer Reports were not quite "of concern," the CDC and FDA both warn that no amount of lead exposure is considered safe.

Read More: Health Alert: Listeria Risk In Freeze-Dried Fruit Packs

How This Could Impact Lubbock’s Boba Shops

No specific local shops were tested in this small sampling; however, very small amounts of lead could be present, specifically in boba pearls. If you still want to enjoy your tea treat but are concerned about potential lead exposure, you can order it without boba or substitute bursting bubbles, jelly, custard, basil seeds, etc., depending on what that shop offers and your personal preference.