Cinnamon Recall: Multiple Brands Pulled from Shelves Over Lead Contamination

Federal health authorities are urging consumers to check their spice racks and cabinets for certain cinnamon products after testing found lead in multiple additional brands.

The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) on Tuesday said it was recommending recalls of nine brands of ground cinnamon products with elevated lead levels, ranging from 2.03 to 7.01 parts per million (ppm).

Potential Health Risks of Lead Exposure

Short-term exposure to very low levels of lead may not result in symptoms, but longer-term exposure to the metal can cause permanent damage to the central nervous system, resulting in learning disorders and other developmental defects in children. Chronic lead exposure is associated with kidney dysfunction, hypertension and neurocognitive effects in adults, according to the FDA.

Affected Cinnamon Products and Distributors

• American Spices of Ozone Park, New York: Spice Class brand ground cinnamon distributed to retailers in the New York City area between Dec.1, 2023, and May 15, 2024.
• Advance Food International of Maspeth, New York: Shahzada brand cinnamon powder in 7-ounce packing distributed to retailers in Connecticut, Massachusetts, New Jersey and New York between Jan. 1, 2024, and May 24, 2024.
• ALB-USA Enterprises of Bronx, New York: ALB Flavor brand cinnamon powder distributed to retailers in Connecticut, Massachusetts, Michigan and New York between Dec. 15, 2022, and May 13, 2024.

FDA Recommendations and Consumer Actions

The FDA is advising people to throw out and not buy the ground cinnamon products on its list, saying that prolonged exposure may be unsafe and could contribute to elevated levels of lead in the blood.

Consumers who have purchased any of the recalled cinnamon products are urged to stop using them immediately and return them to the place of purchase for a refund.

Additional Precautions and Public Health Concerns

Lead-contaminated paint, water, dust and soil are the most recognized lead hazards. However, other products have also been found to contain the metal, including candies, spices, ceremonial powders and alternative medicines.

Similar Recalls and Ongoing Investigations

This latest recall follows several others in recent years involving cinnamon products contaminated with lead. In 2023, the FDA issued a public health alert urging consumers against buying half a dozen ground cinnamon products because they were found to contain elevated levels of lead.

The FDA and other health agencies continue to investigate the sources and causes of lead contamination in food products, including spices and cinnamon.

Protecting Children and Vulnerable Populations

Young children are especially vulnerable to the effects of lead exposure. Lead can cause developmental problems, learning disabilities, and other long-term health issues in children.

Parents and caregivers should ensure that their children do not have access to lead-contaminated products and should seek medical advice if they have any concerns about lead exposure.

Ensuring Food Safety and Consumer Confidence

The FDA and other regulatory agencies play a crucial role in protecting consumers from unsafe food products. Regular inspections, testing, and recalls are essential measures to ensure food safety and maintain public confidence in the food supply.