A recent investigation in northwest China’s Gansu province has uncovered a disturbing case of lead poisoning that affected hundreds of children at Peixin Kindergarten in Tianshui city. The incident, which sparked widespread outrage, revealed that dozens of provincial officials and hospital staff attempted to cover up the case, tampering with blood tests and neglecting food safety inspections.
According to the investigation report, city officials accepted bribes from an investor in Peixin while ignoring food safety protocols across several preschools. In a shocking attempt to attract more students, Peixin chefs used inedible paint containing lead to “enhance the look” of meals, resulting in food samples with lead concentrations over 2,000 times the national safety limit.
Eight individuals were initially detained, with six arrested, including the kindergarten’s principal, cooks, and an investor. Ten officials will face formal accounting procedures, while 17 others are under disciplinary investigation. The Gansu Provincial Centre for Disease Control and Prevention was criticized for not taking the work seriously, with the person in charge of tests violating operating procedures, distorting the results.
The incident came to light after 235 children were hospitalized for lead poisoning, with 234 discharged as of Sunday. Staff at Tianshui No. 2 People’s Hospital were accused of “serious dereliction of duty” and “chaotic” case management. The central government responded quickly, convening an expert panel to review gaps in procedures.
The Chinese government has taken steps to address the crisis, publishing national guidelines for campus meal provision, mandating food testing, and centralized procurement of rice, flour, and cooking oil. Authorities in Tianshui announced free treatment for affected children and legal assistance for families. Peixin Kindergarten will be temporarily managed by a state-owned institution.
The incident has sparked widespread outrage on Chinese social media, with many demanding accountability and deeper reform. “These are young children we’re talking about — how could anyone do this without remorse?” wrote one user on Weibo. Others called for immediate action to prevent similar tragedies, emphasizing that “criminal detention is just the first step.”
Lead poisoning can have devastating consequences, particularly for developing children, causing neurological damage, physical health impacts, and long-term effects. The incident highlights the need for comprehensive reforms to China’s food safety system, including strengthened regulatory oversight, improved traceability, and enhanced transparency.
Parents and caregivers can take steps to minimize risk by carefully checking food labels, buying from reputable sources, and monitoring their child’s health. The government must prioritize food safety, ensuring robust oversight and accountability to prevent similar crises.