Federal Health Authorities Warn of Lead Contamination in Cinnamon Products, Prompting Recalls

Federal health authorities are reiterating the importance of checking cinnamon products due to the discovery of lead in multiple brands. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration has warned that prolonged exposure to even low levels of lead can have severe effects on the body, particularly on the central nervous system and in children's development. Accordingly, several companies have issued recalls for their contaminated cinnamon products.

Health risks associated with lead exposure

Lead exposure poses significant risks to human health, particularly in the case of children and prolonged periods of exposure. The effects can range from learning disorders and developmental defects to kidney dysfunction, hypertension, and neurocognitive impacts in adults. Given the severe consequences, the discovery of lead in cinnamon products is a cause for major concern.

Recalls and contact information

Several companies have taken action in response to the discovery of lead in their cinnamon products. American Spices of Ozone Park, New York, has initiated a recall of its Spice Class brand ground cinnamon, which was distributed in the New York City area between Dec. 1, 2023, and May 15, 2024, as well as the product with a Dec. 12, 2026, expiration date. Additionally, Advance Food International of Maspeth, New York, is recalling its Shahzada brand cinnamon powder, which was distributed to retailers in Connecticut, Massachusetts, New Jersey, and New York between Jan. 1, 2024, and May 24, 2024. Furthermore, ALB-USA Enterprises of Bronx, New York, has issued a recall for its ALB Flavor brand cinnamon powder, which was distributed in Connecticut, Massachusetts, Michigan, and New York between Dec. 15, 2022, and May 13, 2024.

Company contact information for the cinnamon product recalls is as follows:

• American Spices of Ozone Park, New York: 1-917-532-6768
• Advance Food International of Maspeth, New York: 1-718-482-0123
• ALB-USA Enterprises of Bronx, New York: 1-917-922-5627 or 1-929-431-8505

Previous public health alert and broader context

This recent series of cinnamon product recalls follows a prior public health alert issued by the FDA in March. At that time, the agency warned consumers about several ground cinnamon products found to contain elevated levels of lead. The ramifications of these alerts and recalls are particularly significant in the wake of nationwide recalls of lead-contaminated applesauce, which were linked to 519 reported poisonings, the majority of which involved young children.

The discovery of lead in cinnamon products is a matter of utmost concern, and the subsequent recalls are a crucial step in mitigating the potential health risks associated with these contaminated products. It is imperative that consumers who have purchased the affected cinnamon products take the necessary precautions and avail themselves of the recall processes established by the respective companies. Furthermore, ongoing vigilance and scrutiny of food products for potential contaminants are essential in safeguarding public health and well-being.