[header] How to avoid lead exposure from food [title] Always wash fresh produce before eating it. [step] Lead was in paint and gasoline for many decades before regulatory rules came into effect in the late 1970s. As such, soil is frequently contaminated with lead dust, especially in heavily industrialized areas. 
To protect yourself and your children, always thoroughly wash fresh fruit and veggies before you eat them. [substeps] Not only can lead contaminated dust settle on produce, but fruits and veggies can also absorb lead from the soil-making it impossible to wash off.