Expanding Recall: Another Company Raises Concerns Over Cinnamon Safety

Expanding Recall: Another Company Raises Concerns Over Cinnamon Safety

The latest cinnamon recall story takes another concerning turn with a new recall from El Servidor Corp due to lead contamination.

At a Glance

  • FDA issued a recall for El Servidor Corp brand ground cinnamon due to potential lead contamination.
  • The product was distributed to stores in New York since January 14, 2024.
  • Elevated lead levels were discovered during sample analysis by the New York State Department of Agriculture and Markets.
  • No health problems have been reported related to this product.
  • Customers are advised to return the product for a full refund.

Ground Cinnamon Recall Overview

El Servidor Corp, a company based in New York, has been added to the ongoing list of cinnamon brands being recalled due to lead contamination. The recall affects products distributed to stores in New York since January 14, 2024.

FDA’s recall notification specifies the concern over the presence of elevated lead levels, which were discovered during routine sample analysis by the New York State Department of Agriculture and Markets. Despite the alarming news, no health issues have been reported in connection to this particular product thus far.

The issue marks the sixth cinnamon product recall since June 2024, highlighting a concerning pattern in the industry. This recall adds El Servidor Corp’s ground cinnamon to a list of multiple recalls, signaling a wider problem of potential lead contamination in cinnamon products. Consumers are advised to return the affected product for a full refund.

Health Effects and Recommendations

Lead exposure, even at low levels, can result in numerous adverse health effects, especially in children. According to sources, some recalled cinnamon products contained lead levels ranging from 2.03 to 5,110 parts per million. The FDA’s alert emphasizes the need for consumers to limit cinnamon consumption, particularly for young children until the contamination issue is resolved.

“It’s alarming that lead is being found in these additional products because it demonstrates that the problem is more pervasive than we might want to believe.” – Brian Ronholm, Consumer

There is currently no set limit for lead in spices by the FDA, but the United Nations recommends a safety standard of 2.5 parts per million for bark spices like cinnamon. The significant levels found in some products underscore potential lapses in oversight and quality control in food manufacturing.

Current Investigations and Consumer Advice

The FDA began intensified testing of cinnamon products after fruit purée pouches, contaminated with lead, poisoned over 460 children. The cause of lead contamination in cinnamon products remains unknown, prompting further investigation into the supply chain and manufacturing processes. Recent discussions suggest financial motivations could be behind the lead contamination, as lead chromate can enhance the spice’s color and weight.

“It’s a little scary to think about all the things that potentially could be lurking in our food system because we don’t have the resources,” – Leigh Frame, George Washington University School of Medicine and Health Sciences

Moving forward, experts urge consumers to stay informed and vigilant. Customers should return any El Servidor Corp ground cinnamon product to the purchase location for a full refund. Ensuring a robust and effective quality control mechanism remains critical for protecting public health.

Sources

1. 16 Ground-Cinnamon Products Could Be Contaminated With Lead, the FDA Warns

2. More ground cinnamon recalled for lead contamination

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