The California Department of Public Health is warning people not to eat Red Vines black licorice after tests found the candy to contain excessive levels of lead.

Consumers in possession of the candy should discard it immediately, warned Ron Chapman, director of the California Department of Public Health. Tests conducted by the public health department found that the licorice contained levels of lead exceeding state standards.

Red Vines black licorice twists, sold in a one-pound package with a best before date of Feb. 4, 2013, should be thrown away. American Licorice Co. in Union City, which makes the candy, has initiated a voluntary recall of the licorice to get it off store shelves. It is recommended that pregnant women and parents of children who may have eaten this candy consult their physician or health care provider to determine if medical testing is needed.

Consumers who find the candy for sale are asked to call the CDPH complaint hotline at 1-800-495-3232.