The FDA has found high lead levels in certain ground cinnamon products, far exceeding the proposed international safety standard. This alert follows a broader FDA initiative to ensure the safety of ground cinnamon products, intensified after the discovery of elevated lead levels in WanaBana cinnamon apple puree and applesauce in late 2023.
With lead exposure posing significant risks, particularly to young children, the agency’s alert serves as a wake-up call for consumers to remain vigilant about the hidden dangers that may be lurking in their spice racks.
The Cinnamon Culprit
The FDA’s alert specifically targets ground cinnamon distributed by El Servidor Corp. of Elmhurst, NY, and sold through Mannan Supermarket, Inc.
Tests revealed lead concentrations of 20 parts per million (ppm) in the El Servidor brand cinnamon, far exceeding the proposed international safety standard of 2.5 ppm for cinnamon and other bark spices.(ref)
This revelation comes amidst increased scrutiny following the 2023 recall of cinnamon applesauce, with lead concentrations reaching a staggering 5,110 ppm.(ref) The agency continues to work with state partners to test cinnamon sold directly to consumers and advises both domestic and international food suppliers to conduct voluntary testing to prevent contamination.
Health Hazards of Lead Exposure
Lead exposure poses significant health risks, particularly for young children due to their smaller size and developing bodies.
Even short-term exposure can cause symptoms such as headaches, abdominal pain, vomiting, and anemia. However, the real danger lies in prolonged exposure, which may lead to severe issues like irritability, lethargy, muscle weakness, and cognitive impairments, including learning disabilities and decreased IQ.(ref)
Pregnant women are also at risk, as lead can cross the placenta and affect the developing fetus. Exposure during pregnancy is linked to miscarriages, stillbirths, premature births, and low birth weight. Infants can also be exposed through breast milk if the mother has elevated blood lead levels.
Protecting Your Family
The FDA recommends immediately discarding the affected El Servidor ground cinnamon product to safeguard your family’s health. Due to its long shelf life, consumers should refrain from consuming, selling, or serving this product and thoroughly check their homes for any remaining stock.
In addition to avoiding the specific product mentioned in the alert, there are several steps you can take to reduce potential lead exposure in your home:
- Regularly wet-wipe windowsills and mop floors to eliminate household dust, a common source of lead.
- If you live in a home built before 1978, get it inspected for lead contamination and hire a certified contractor to repair or replace any chipped or cracked lead-based paint.
- Avoid imported toys, jewelry, candy, spices, and other products that have been found to contain lead. Check the Consumer Product Safety Commission’s website for product recalls.
- Feed your family a healthy diet with adequate calcium and iron, which can reduce lead absorption.
- Filter your water or run cold tap water for a few minutes before using it for cooking or drinking.
If you suspect lead exposure, particularly in children, consult a healthcare provider immediately, as most children may not show immediate symptoms.
As the FDA continues its investigation and works with manufacturers to mitigate risks, consumers must remain vigilant. By staying informed, following the agency’s recommendations, and prioritizing the safety of our food supply, we can protect our families from the hidden dangers that may be lurking in our spice racks. Together, we can ensure that the only thing adding spice to our lives is the flavor, not the threat of lead poisoning.
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Nancy Maffia
Nancy received a bachelor’s in biology from Elmira College and a master’s degree in horticulture and communications from the University of Kentucky. Worked in plant taxonomy at the University of Florida and the L. H. Bailey Hortorium at Cornell University, and wrote and edited gardening books at Rodale Press in Emmaus, PA. Her interests are plant identification, gardening, hiking, and reading.
