The Food and Drug Administration is warning consumers to stop using certain cinnamon products because of elevated lead levels. This alert comes on the heels of an October 2023 recall involving cinnamon apple puree and applesauce that led to 468 cases of lead and chromium poisoning.
The FDA has identified higher-than-acceptable lead levels in cinnamon from brands such as Compania Indillor Orientale, ALB Flavor, Shahzada, Spice Class, and La Frontera. Additionally, new batches of already flagged brands like El Chilar, Marcum, SWAD, and Supreme Tradition have been added to the health alert.
“The FDA is warning consumers to stop using certain cinnamon products sold by retailers, including Family Dollar, Dollar Tree, and Save A Lot, due to elevated levels of lead.”
Consumers who have purchased these products should stop using them immediately. Items should be thrown away and not repurchased.
No illnesses have been reported so far. Nonetheless, anyone who believes they may have been exposed to lead is advised to contact a healthcare provider for medical consultation.
We recommended recalls of certain cinnamon products because prolonged exposure to these products may be unsafe. This video goes over what to know about lead in certain ground cinnamon. https://t.co/M33Bj2Yh5q pic.twitter.com/3zI1bO8AdZ
— U.S. FDA (@US_FDA) March 8, 2024
Prior Recalls Underline Food Safety Vulnerabilities
This latest recall expands the scope of the food safety concerns brought to light by previous incidents involving cinnamon products. The FDA’s findings have extended the list of affected items, raising alarm bells about potential contamination points within the food supply chain.
In collaboration with manufacturers, the FDA recommends a voluntary recall of these contaminated products. The agency also emphasizes the critical need for stringent quality controls to prevent contamination at every stage of the supply chain.
Cinnamon can naturally become contaminated from the environment,” Francisco Diez-Gonzalez, PhD, director of the University of Georgia Center for Food Safety.
Through ongoing monitoring, the FDA aims to ensure consumer safety by detecting and mitigating risks associated with food products sold in the U.S. market.
Steps for Consumers to Take
Consumers are urged to check the specific labels, including best by dates, lot numbers, and identifying product codes provided by the FDA. Disposal and avoiding future purchases of the affected cinnamon products are immediate steps to mitigate risk.
Long-term exposure to lead can cause severe health impacts, especially in children. The FDA’s interim reference level (IRL) for lead exposure is based on the CDC’s blood reference level to prevent such adverse effects.
“You can’t smell or taste lead in cinnamon,” said Diez-Gonzalez.
By following these guidelines, consumers can help ensure that their households remain safe while contributing to broader food safety initiatives.
