The FDA has issued a warning about elevated lead levels in various ground cinnamon products, prompting consumers to be cautious.
This alert follows a recent warning regarding El Servidor cinnamon. New brands under scrutiny include El Chilar, Marcum, SWAD, Supreme Tradition, Compania Indillor Orientale, ALB Flavor, Shahzada, Spice Class, and La Frontera.
The FDA has requested that companies recall these products voluntarily and advised consumers to check their spice racks for any contamination.
Lead is a toxic metal that can accumulate in the body, potentially causing damage to the nervous system, impaired development, and other serious health issues. Symptoms of short-term exposure include headaches, abdominal pain, and vomiting, while long-term exposure poses risks of irritability, fatigue, and cognitive difficulties.
Although the FDA doesn’t enforce specific lead limits in spices, the UN’s Food and Agriculture Organization recommends a maximum of 2.5 parts per million (ppm) in cinnamon. El Chilar was found to have 7.01 ppm of lead, while El Servidor’s product had an alarming 20 ppm. Other products fell above 2.03 ppm.
To date, no illnesses have been reported, but the FDA urges consumers to discard and refrain from purchasing the affected cinnamon products. Out of the nine products flagged, three have been formally recalled, while the remaining six are subject to voluntary recalls.
The FDA specifically warned about the risks to children, highlighting their vulnerability due to their smaller body size and rapid growth. Lead exposure during early development can lead to long-term neurological issues.
Chronic exposure in adults can lead to kidney dysfunction and high blood pressure. The FDA recommends consulting a healthcare provider if lead exposure is suspected, as symptoms may not always be apparent. Eating a well-balanced diet can also help mitigate some of the health risks associated with lead exposure.
While there have been no reported health incidents tied to these cinnamon products, the situation is raising concerns and prompting a detailed review of similar spice products on the market.