Federal health authorities are once again urging people to check their spice racks and cabinets for certain cinnamon products after testing found lead in multiple additional brands. 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, according to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration. Chronic lead exposure is associated with kidney dysfunction, hypertension, and neurocognitive effects in adults. American Spices of Ozone Park, New York, is recalling Spice Class brand ground cinnamon packed in 7-ounce and 12-ounce plastic jars with a Dec. 12, 2026, expiration date after elevated levels of lead were found in the product.
Consumers should stop using the recalled cinnamon powder immediately and return it to the place of purchase for a refund. Those with questions can call the company at 1-917-532-6768. Advance Food International of Maspeth, New York, is also recalling Shahzada brand cinnamon powder in 7-ounce packing because it has the potential to be contaminated with elevated levels of lead. The recalled cinnamon powder was distributed to retailers in Connecticut, Massachusetts, New Jersey, and New York between Jan. 1, 2024, and May 24, 2024. Consumers with questions can contact the company at 1-718-482-0123. The recalls follow another by ALB-USA Enterprises of Bronx, New York, involving ALB Flavor brand cinnamon powder for the same reason, with a best-before-date of Aug. 30, 2025.
The FDA has also issued a public health alert for Elmhurst, New York-based El Servidor brand ground cinnamon sold by Mannan Supermarket due to elevated levels of lead. The agency has recommended the distributor voluntarily recall the product. In March, the FDA issued a public health alert against buying six ground cinnamon products after they were found to contain elevated levels of lead. This warning came after nationwide recalls of lead-tainted applesauce linked to 519 reported poisonings, mostly involving young children. The potential health risks associated with lead exposure underscore the importance of checking spice products for contamination and following recall notices to protect consumer health and safety.
The recent recalls of various cinnamon products highlight the ongoing issue of lead contamination in food products and the importance of thorough testing and monitoring to ensure consumer safety. Exposure to lead can have serious health consequences, particularly for children and pregnant women, with potential long-term effects on the central nervous system, kidney function, and cognitive abilities. It is crucial for consumers to heed recall notices and promptly return or dispose of contaminated products to prevent harmful exposures and potential health risks. The FDA’s efforts to alert the public to unsafe products and work with manufacturers to remove them from the market are essential in safeguarding public health.
In conclusion, the recent recalls of lead-contaminated cinnamon products serve as a reminder of the complex challenges in ensuring the safety and quality of food products. Continued vigilance, testing, and regulatory oversight are necessary to prevent harmful exposure to toxic substances like lead. Consumers can protect themselves by staying informed about recall notices and proactively checking their spices and pantry items for any potential contamination. By working together with health authorities and manufacturers, we can reduce the risk of exposure to harmful substances and promote a safer and healthier food supply for all.
