Lead Found in Cinnamon Products: Health Authorities Issue Urgent Recall

Federal health authorities are once again reminding everyone to check their spice cabinets for specific cinnamon products after tests revealed lead in several brands. While short-term exposure to low levels of lead might not cause immediate symptoms, prolonged exposure can be harmful, especially to children, causing serious issues like developmental defects and learning disorders.

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration has pointed out that chronic lead exposure can also lead to problems like kidney dysfunction and hypertension in adults. Most people associate lead hazards with things like paint and water, but it can also be found in foods such as candies and spices.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, it’s essential to be cautious about unexpected sources of lead, like spices that might be mixed with lead chromate, a toxic pigment. Recently, American Spices from Ozone Park, New York, recalled Spice Class brand ground cinnamon after state officials reported elevated lead levels.

This cinnamon was distributed to stores in the New York City area between December 1, 2023, and May 15, 2024. Customers are advised to stop using this cinnamon and return it to where they bought it for a full refund. For any questions, they can call 1-917-532-6768.

Additionally, Advance Food International from Maspeth, New York, is recalling Shahzada brand cinnamon powder, which may also have high lead content. This product was distributed to markets across Connecticut, Massachusetts, New Jersey, and New York between January 1, 2024, and May 24, 2024. Inquiries can be made at 1-718-482-0123.

Another recall was issued on Friday for ALB Flavor brand cinnamon powder by ALB-USA Enterprises in the Bronx, New York. This product also had concerning lead levels and was distributed in Connecticut, Massachusetts, Michigan, and New York from December 15, 2022, to May 13, 2024.

The FDA has also released a public health alert for El Servidor brand ground cinnamon sold by Mannan Supermarket in Elmhurst, New York, due to similar lead concerns. Consumers are urged to be cautious and check their products, especially after a warning in March about several products being found contaminated.