New FDA Advisory Highlights Unexpected Risk Found in Popular Spice

Lead contamination in popular ground cinnamon products has sparked a significant health alert from the FDA, urging consumers to discard potentially dangerous items.

At a Glance

The FDA issued an alert for elevated lead levels in brands like Super Brand and Asli.
Previous alerts were made in March and July for other cinnamon products.
Consumers advised to dispose of contaminated cinnamon immediately.
Over 250 children were affected by lead-contaminated products previously.

FDA’s New Health Alert

The FDA has highlighted high lead contamination in specific ground cinnamon products, including those from Super Brand, Asli, El Chilar, and Marcum. Elevated lead levels pose severe health risks, particularly to children. Collaboration between the FDA and state health agencies aims to remove these products from circulation and prevent future distribution. Distributors are urged to recall affected items as part of a broader initiative that aligns with the Closer to Zero campaign.

FDA stress on safety has resulted in multiple alerts this year, including recent warnings for Super Brand cinnamon. Manufacturers and distributors must prevent chemical hazards in food products, a mandate underscored by recent events. As part of comprehensive safety measures, consumers are advised to carefully check their homes for these products and dispose of any affected items.

FDA issues alert for ground cinnamon brand due to potential lead contamination https://t.co/vvEBgE6A6y pic.twitter.com/PqjXMDwAW5

— ABC7 News (@abc7newsbayarea) July 30, 2024

Broader Context of Lead Contamination

The discovery of lead in cinnamon originates from earlier cases involving other products. Concerns were initially raised in fall 2023 when WanaBana brand applesauce pouches tested high for lead, affecting over 250 children nationwide. This prompted recalls and heightened vigilance across various food products. The persistence of lead in environments underscores the need for stringent controls and consistent testing, particularly for foods targeting vulnerable populations like children.

“For ingredient suppliers and final products that contain cinnamon, the FDA advises both domestic and foreign food suppliers to voluntarily test their products to ensure safety. Ultimately, it is the responsibility of the manufacturers and the importers to ensure the safety of the products that enter into the U.S. market. In March 2024, the FDA sent a letter to cinnamon manufacturers, processors, distributors and facility operators in the U.S. reminding them of the requirement to implement controls to prevent contamination from potential chemical hazards in food, including in ground cinnamon products.” – FDA

The current alert is part of ongoing efforts to ensure food safety. This is crucial given lead’s ability to remain in the body and cause long-term harm, particularly in young children. Preventive actions, including testing and consumer advisories, serve as significant steps in controlling the spread of contamination.

We recommended recalls of certain cinnamon products because prolonged exposure to these products may be unsafe. This video goes over what to know about lead in certain ground cinnamon. https://t.co/M33Bj2Yh5q pic.twitter.com/3zI1bO8AdZ

— U.S. FDA (@US_FDA) March 8, 2024

Ensuring Product Safety

The FDA remains vigilant as they continue probing cinnamon at retail and import levels. Import alerts and testing are critical to halting unsafe products from reaching U.S. consumers. The advisory encourages manufacturers to proactively implement testing mechanisms, ensuring only safe products penetrate the market. Engaging in preventive measures—such as volunteer testing and control setups—can safeguard against contamination hazards.

“Even small amounts of lead pose a risk because, over time, it can accumulate in the body and remain there for years, seriously harming health” – James Rogers

Through initiatives like Closer to Zero, the FDA continues its commitment to minimizing toxic element exposure in foods, especially those frequently consumed by children. Ensuring ongoing vigilance, product examination, and consumer education will be pivotal in addressing the health challenges posed by lead contamination.