by Washington, D.C. – The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has issued an urgent alert regarding the safety of certain popular ground cinnamon brands after discovering dangerously high levels of lead contamination. In the latest update, the FDA identified four additional brands, raising the total to 16 cinnamon products that may pose health risks due to elevated lead content.
Consumers are advised to check their spice shelves and immediately discard any of the affected products to avoid potential lead exposure, which can have serious health consequences, especially for children.
A Growing Food Safety Concern: Cinnamon Tainted with Lead
The newly added brands include HAETAE, Roshni, Durra, and Wise Wife, joining a list of 12 other cinnamon products previously found to contain lead concentrations ranging from 2.03 to 7.68 parts per million (ppm). The FDA’s findings come after ongoing investigations prompted by earlier recalls linked to contaminated applesauce pouches containing cinnamon.
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- Roshni: 2.268 ppm
- HAETAE: 4.60 ppm
- Durra: 2.44 ppm
- Wise Wife: 2.49 ppm
- Super Brand: 7.68 and 6.60 ppm
- El Chilar: 3.75 and 7.01 ppm
The FDA has requested voluntary recalls from all companies except HAETAE, while 10 of the 16 brands have already announced recalls. Consumers who find these products should not consume them under any circumstances.
Why Is Lead Found in Cinnamon?
Brian Ronholm, director of food policy at Consumer Reports, explains that lead contamination in cinnamon occurs through multiple avenues. Cinnamon is derived from the inner bark of certain trees, which can absorb lead if grown in contaminated soil—often polluted by industrial byproducts. Additionally, lead may enter the product during processing, storage, or packaging.
“Cinnamon can absorb lead from the soil where it’s grown, and contamination can also come from equipment or packaging,” said Ronholm.
As part of its efforts to protect public health, the FDA continuously monitors and regulates lead levels in foods. The recent spate of recalls highlights ongoing challenges, despite budget cuts and staffing changes at the agency.
The Health Risks of Lead Exposure
The FDA stresses that there is no safe level of lead exposure. Chronic intake of lead, even at low levels, can cause serious health issues, especially in vulnerable populations like young children and pregnant women.
- In children: Lead exposure can cause neurological damage, including learning disabilities, behavioral problems, and lowered IQ.
- In adults: Long-term exposure may lead to high blood pressure, kidney damage, and cardiovascular diseases.
“High levels of exposure during in utero development, infancy, and early childhood pose significant neurological risks,” the FDA warns.
What You Should Do Now
If you have any of the identified cinnamon brands in your home, dispose of them immediately to reduce potential lead exposure. The FDA recommends staying updated on recall notices and purchasing spices from trusted sources with robust safety standards.
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Consumers can help by spreading awareness and ensuring their families avoid contaminated products.
Key Takeaways:
- 16 ground cinnamon brands have been found with elevated lead levels ranging from 2.03 ppm to 7.68 ppm.
- The FDA has requested voluntary recalls and advised consumers to throw away any affected products.
- Lead contamination can originate from soil, production, or packaging processes.
- Lead exposure can have severe health impacts, especially on children’s development.
- Continued vigilance and testing are essential to ensure food safety standards are met.
Have Your Say
What do you think about this ongoing lead contamination issue in popular spices? Share your thoughts and safety tips in the comments below!
