The FDA has issued a warning about lead contamination found in certain cinnamon powder products. If you love to spice things up in the kitchen, pay close attention!
Recent recall notices highlighted the risks associated with “Spice Class” and “Shahzada” cinnamon powders, which could contain unsafe lead levels. This follows earlier recalls last week for other cinnamon brands due to the same concern.
The Shahzada cinnamon powder was available in retail stores across New York, New Jersey, Connecticut, and Massachusetts from January 1 to May 24, 2024. Similarly, the Spice Class “ground cinnamon” was distributed in the NYC area from December 1, 2023, to May 15, 2024. Neither of these brands was sold online.
The Spice Class ground cinnamon came in 7- and 11-ounce jars, marked with an expiration date of “12/2026.” The Shahzada product was sold in 7-ounce plastic bags, but it’s unclear if it had an expiration date.
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If you have these products at home, it’s crucial to stop using them immediately and return them to the store for a full refund.
For further inquiries, reach out to the respective companies: American Spices, LLC at 1-917-532-6768 and Advance Food International, Inc. at 1-718-482-0123.
This recall came after elevated lead levels were detected by the New York State Department of Agriculture and Markets. Both the companies and the FDA are currently investigating the issue.
No illnesses have been reported so far, but lead exposure can pose serious health risks, particularly for children. Potential long-term effects include neurological damage and learning disabilities.
Both recall notices warn that signs of lead exposure may not be immediately noticeable. For children, lasting damage to the central nervous system can result from prolonged exposure. For adults, chronic lead exposure can lead to kidney problems, high blood pressure, and cognitive issues.
According to the CDC, there’s no safe level of lead in the blood; even small amounts can significantly affect children’s health. Symptoms of lead poisoning can vary—short-term effects may include headaches and vomiting, while longer exposure may lead to fatigue, irritability, and difficulty concentrating.