Cinnamon Recall Widens Over High Lead Levels: Essential Pre-Baking Checks

Recent updates from the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) have expanded the list of cinnamon products recalled due to high levels of lead. This announcement comes as the holiday baking season approaches, raising concerns about the safety of various cinnamon brands.

Cinnamon Recall Details

On October 10, 2024, the FDA revealed that 16 brands of cinnamon are now implicated in this recall. Elevated lead levels in these products pose significant health risks, particularly for children, potentially leading to neurological issues and learning disabilities.

The initial recall began in July 2024 and has already required multiple updates over the past month. While no illnesses have been reported, consumers are urged to check their supplies due to the long shelf life of cinnamon.

Affected Cinnamon Brands

Here is a list of the recalled cinnamon products:

• ALB Flavor – Sold at Eurogrocery; Lot code: LA02; Best before: 30/08/2025 (Connecticut)
• Asli – Sold at A&Y Global Market, Columbia, MO; Lot code: DDDLUS (Missouri)
• Compania Indillor Orientale – Sold at Eurogrocery; Lot code: L1803231; Expiration date: August 2024 (Connecticut)
• Durra – Sold in California and Michigan; UPC code: 6251136 034139; Best by: May 2026
• El Chilar – Sold at El Torito Market; Lot code: D181EX0624 and E054EX0225 (Maryland)
• HAETAE – UPC code: 6251136 034139
• Jiva Organics – Sold at Taj Supermarket, California; Best by: July 2025
• La Frontera – Sold in New York; No lot code
• Marcum – Sold at Save-A-Lot Food Stores; Best by dates: 12/05/25 (Missouri & Virginia)
• Roshni – UPC code: 6251136 034139
• Shahzada – Sold at Premium Supermarket; No lot code; New York
• Spice Class – Sold at Fish World; Best by: December 2026 (New York)
• Super Brand – Sold at Asian Supermarket, Little Rock, AR; No lot code
• Supreme Tradition – Sold at Dollar Tree; Lot code: 10A11; Best by: 10/06/25 (California)
• SWAD – Sold at Patel Brothers; Batch No.: KX28223; Best by October 2026 (Connecticut)
• Wise Wife – UPC code: 0 688474 302853

Consumer Recommendations

The FDA strongly advises consumers to discontinue the use of any recalled cinnamon products. These should not be consumed or offered for sale or service. Instead, they should be disposed of immediately.

Symptoms of Lead Exposure

If there are concerns regarding lead exposure, individuals should contact their healthcare providers. Symptoms of lead exposure are often subtle, especially in children. These may include:

• Trouble learning
• Low IQ
• Behavior changes

At higher levels of exposure, symptoms can include:

• Abdominal pain
• Nausea and vomiting
• Dehydration and headaches
• Exhaustion and irritability
• Weakness or tingling in hands and feet

Long-term exposure may lead to more severe effects, such as chronic abdominal pain, depression, and elevated blood pressure. Consumers should remain vigilant, especially during the busy baking season, to ensure the safety of the products they use.