The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has issued a sweeping new public health alert, expanding its recall of ground cinnamon products after detecting elevated lead levels in multiple popular brands. This latest move comes as part of a year-long investigation into spice safety, with regulators warning that the contamination poses a particular risk to children and families.
Why the FDA Is Sounding the Alarm
The FDA’s third public health alert this year targets
11 brands of ground cinnamon found to contain lead levels ranging from 2.03 to 7.68 parts per million (ppm). While these numbers are lower than the staggering lead concentrations found in the infamous WanaBana cinnamon apple puree recall of 2023—which reached up to 5,110 ppm—they are still well above what is considered safe, especially for young children.
“We’re taking this step to ensure the safety of ground cinnamon used in foods frequently consumed by babies and young children,” the FDA stated in its alert.
How the Contamination Was Discovered
After the high-profile WanaBana recall last year, the FDA ramped up its testing of ground cinnamon and other spices. The agency worked closely with state partners, including Arkansas, California, Maryland, Missouri, Connecticut, and Virginia, to collect and analyze samples from retail stores. The New York State Department of Agriculture and Markets also contributed to the investigation.
These efforts uncovered a pattern of
elevated lead levels in certain ground cinnamon products, prompting the FDA to recommend recalls and urge consumers to check their spice cabinets.
Which Brands Are Affected?
While the FDA has not released the full list of affected brands in its latest alert, it has confirmed that
11 brands are involved, with detailed lead level data available on its website. The agency is continuing to review additional samples and has warned that more products could be added to the recall as new information emerges.
One specific product,
Durra Ground Cinnamon 100 G, has also been recalled due to possible health risks, according to a separate FDA notice.
What Consumers Should Do
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Check your pantry: If you have ground cinnamon, especially from lesser-known brands, consult the FDA’s recall list and public health alerts.
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Do not use recalled products: Discard any affected cinnamon immediately, especially if it may be consumed by children.
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Monitor for symptoms: Lead exposure can cause serious health issues, particularly in children, including developmental delays and neurological problems.
The Bigger Picture: Ongoing Spice Safety Concerns
This latest recall highlights a growing concern over the safety of imported spices and the need for stricter oversight. The FDA’s ongoing investigation is part of a broader effort to monitor and remove adulterated foods from the market, with a special focus on products consumed by vulnerable populations.
The agency has pledged to update the public as more test results become available and is urging states to continue prioritizing spice testing.
What’s Next?
Consumers should stay alert for further updates from the FDA as the investigation continues. The agency’s swift action underscores the importance of food safety vigilance—and the need for transparency from spice manufacturers.
If you suspect you have purchased a recalled product, contact the FDA or your local health department for guidance.
Sources
1. Ground Cinnamon Products Added to FDA Public Health Alert Due ...
2. Durra Ground Cinnamon 100 G Because of Possible Health Risk
3. Elevated Lead and Chromium Levels in Cinnamon Applesauce ...
