In recent developments, several brands of ground cinnamon have been recalled due to elevated levels of lead contamination. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has urged consumers to stop using and dispose of certain batches of the spice after discovering the issue.
The first recall was initiated by ALB-USA Enterprises Inc., following an analysis conducted by the Connecticut Agricultural Experiment Station (CAES). The affected product, ALB Flavor brand Cinnamon Powder, was distributed to retailers in New York, Massachusetts, and Michigan between December 2022 and May 2024.
Additionally, American Spices of Ozone Park is recalling Spice Class brand ground cinnamon with a Dec.12, 2026 expiration date. Advance Food International is also recalling Shahzada brand cinnamon powder with a net weight of 100 grams and best-before-date of Aug.30, 2025.
The FDA has stated that there is no known safe level of lead exposure, and even short-term exposure to low levels may not elicit any symptoms. However, chronic or long-term exposure can result in serious health issues such as kidney dysfunction, hypertension, neurocognitive effects, and developmental defects in children.
Lead is a naturally occurring toxic metal that can replace calcium in bones and teeth and be stored in the body for decades. It has been linked to a range of neurological and cardiovascular conditions as well as problems with the kidneys, blood, immune system, and reproductive health.
Symptoms of lead exposure include headache, abdominal pain/colic, vomiting, anemia (short-term), irritability, lethargy, fatigue, muscle aches or muscle prickling/burning (longer term), constipation, difficulty concentrating/muscular weakness (longer term), tremor (longer term), and weight loss.
If you suspect that you or someone else has been exposed to elevated levels of lead, it is recommended that you speak with your healthcare provider. The FDA advises maintaining a healthy, balanced diet as it can help protect against some of the health effects of lead exposure.
The FDA is continuing its investigation into the source and cause of this contamination in cinnamon products. Consumers are advised to check their spice racks and cabinets for any affected brands and dispose of them accordingly.
