FDA Alert: 16 Cinnamon Brands Contain High Lead Levels
Cinnamon is a beloved spice in many households, but recent findings from the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) raise serious health concerns. The agency has identified 16 brands of ground cinnamon that contain alarmingly high levels of lead, a toxic substance linked to various health issues.
FDA Alert: 16 Cinnamon Brands Contain High Lead Levels
In a recent update, the FDA reported that four additional cinnamon brands were found to have elevated lead levels. The total number of affected brands is now 16. These include:
- HAETAE
- Roshni
- Durra
- Wise Wife
The FDA suggests that prolonged exposure to these contaminated products may be unsafe and could contribute to increased lead levels in the bloodstream. Most of the companies, except for HAETAE, have been asked to voluntarily recall their products.
Current Recall Status
So far, 10 out of the 16 brands have announced recalls. Consumers who have these ground cinnamon products at home are advised to discard them immediately.
Brands and Lead Levels
The FDA’s investigation found lead levels in these brands ranging from 2.03 parts per million (ppm) to 7.68 ppm, posing potential health risks. The specific levels for some brands are listed below:
| Brand | Lead Level (ppm) |
|---|---|
| Roshni | 2.268 |
| HAETAE | 4.60 |
| Durra | 2.44 |
| Wise Wife | 2.49 |
| Jiva Organics | 2.29 |
| Super Brand | 7.68 & 6.60 |
| Asli | 2.32 |
| El Chilar | 3.75 & 7.01 |
| Marcum | 2.22 & 2.14 |
| SWAD | 2.89 |
| Supreme Tradition | 2.37 |
| Compania Indillor Orientale | 2.23 |
| ALB Flavor | 3.93 |
| Shahzada | 2.03 |
| Spice Class | 2.04 |
| La Frontera | 2.66 |
Background on Lead Contamination
Lead contamination in cinnamon is a longstanding issue. Factors contributing to this problem include soil contamination and the use of leaded processing equipment. Consumer Reports’ food policy director, Brian Ronholm, noted that cinnamon absorbs lead from contaminated soil.
In response to previous cinnamon-related health incidents, such as those affecting children’s health from tainted applesauce pouches, the FDA has increased scrutiny on cinnamon products. The agency continues to monitor and regulate lead levels in food items to protect public health.
Health Risks Associated with Lead Exposure
According to the FDA, exposure to lead poses significant health risks. Even small amounts can lead to serious complications, particularly in children, including:
- Learning disabilities
- Behavioral problems
- Reduced IQ
Adults can face long-term health issues such as high blood pressure, cardiovascular problems, and kidney damage due to chronic exposure to lead.
The FDA emphasizes that there is no safe level of lead exposure, making this issue of public health urgency. Consumers are urged to check their products and follow recall instructions diligently to ensure safety.
