FDA Issues Broader Recall for Common Spice Over Safety Concerns

The FDA expands recall of ground cinnamon products due to lead contamination, urging consumers to check their pantries.

At a Glance

Multiple brands of ground cinnamon recalled due to elevated lead levels.
FDA issues Class II recall, indicating potential temporary health effects.
Affected products distributed in New York, Connecticut, Michigan, and Massachusetts.
No illnesses reported to date, but lead exposure poses significant health risks.
Consumers urged to return recalled products for a full refund.

FDA Expands Cinnamon Recall

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has expanded its recall of ground cinnamon products due to lead contamination concerns. The latest announcement adds Gutierrez brand ground cinnamon to a growing list of recalled products. This expansion follows the recall of El Servidor Corp ground cinnamon at the end of July after “elevated” levels of lead were discovered in the product.

The FDA has classified this recall as Class II, indicating that the contamination may cause temporary or medically reversible adverse health effects. The affected product, sold by ALB-USA Enterprises based in Bronx, New York, was found to contain lead levels of 3.294 parts per million (ppm). This discovery was made during routine testing conducted by the Connecticut Agricultural Experiment Station (CAES).

Gutierrez Distributor Expands Recall of Ground Cinnamon Because of Possible Health Risk https://t.co/ZLhOFGm5wJ pic.twitter.com/ajx3hYU9K0

— U.S. FDA Recalls (@FDArecalls) August 26, 2024

Scope of the Recall

The recall affects 240 units of ground cinnamon distributed in New York, Connecticut, Michigan, and Massachusetts. The product details include a UPC code of 5304000333362, a “Best Before” date of August 30, 2025, and a lot number of LA02. These products were packaged in 100-gram plastic bags and distributed between December 2022 and May 2024.

The FDA has urged consumers to discontinue use of the product immediately and return it for a full refund. The company has halted production and distribution of the affected cinnamon products while working with the FDA to determine the source of contamination and prevent future issues.

Health Risks Associated with Lead Exposure

While no illnesses have been reported to date, lead exposure poses significant health risks, especially to children. Lead can cause learning disorders, developmental defects, hyperactivity, slowed growth, hearing problems, and anemia. In rare cases, it may even lead to seizures, coma, or death. Parents and caregivers are advised to contact healthcare providers if they suspect lead exposure.

For adults, chronic lead exposure has been associated with kidney dysfunction, hypertension, and cognitive effects. The FDA continues to monitor the situation closely and urges consumers to be vigilant about checking their pantries for recalled products.

Ongoing Investigation and Consumer Advice

As the recall remains ongoing, the FDA and affected companies are investigating the cause of the lead contamination. Consumers are advised to check their pantries for the recalled cinnamon products and to stay informed about any updates or expansions to the recall. The FDA emphasizes the importance of food safety and encourages consumers to report any adverse reactions or quality issues related to these products.

This recall serves as a reminder of the importance of robust food safety measures and the need for ongoing vigilance in our food supply chain. As investigations continue, consumers are encouraged to stay informed and prioritize their health by following FDA guidelines and recommendations.