Seema Khaneja MD
Updated on: October 11, 2024 9:07 pm GMT
Recent findings have raised significant health concerns regarding commonly used cinnamon products, revealing high levels of lead in several popular brands. A study conducted by Consumer Reports indicates that one-third of the examined samples contained lead levels exceeding the safety threshold established by New York state, which regulates heavy metals in spices. This troubling revelation has prompted several brands to be placed on a list of products consumers should avoid.
Cinnamon Containing Dangerous Levels of Lead
Consumer Reports tested 36 ground cinnamon products and spice blends, discovering that 12 of them had lead concentrations above 1 part per million (ppm), the threshold that would trigger a recall under New York regulations. The brands placed on a “never use” list include:
- Paras cinnamon powder
- EGN cinnamon powder
- Mimi’s Products ground cinnamon
- Bowl & Basket ground cinnamon
- Zara Foods cinnamon powder
- Three Rivers cinnamon stick powder
- Yu Yee Brand five spice powder
- BaiLiFeng five spice powder
- Spicy King five spices powder
- Badia cinnamon powder
- Rani Brand cinnamon powder
- Deep cinnamon powder
Previous Health Risks and Ongoing Investigations
These findings follow a worrying lead poisoning outbreak last fall that affected over 500 children. Investigations revealed that cinnamon from three brands of apple puree pouches was responsible for the health crisis. In light of these events, Consumer Reports opted to share their findings with New York officials for further investigation.
James Rogers, PhD, director of food safety research and testing at Consumer Reports, stated, “If you have one of those products, we think you should throw it away. 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.”
High traces of lead have been found in several cinnamon products, prompting calls for consumers to discard them. (iStock)
Health Risks Associated with Lead Exposure
Lead exposure can lead to serious health complications, especially in vulnerable populations like children. According to the FDA, high lead exposure can cause:
- Developmental defects
- Learning disorders
- Central nervous system damage
- Permanent physical health issues
Adults may also face significant health risks from chronic lead exposure, including:
- Kidney dysfunction
- Hypertension
- Neurocognitive effects
The FDA has previously noted that trace amounts of lead can enter cinnamon through soil, groundwater, and even processing equipment.
Responses from Affected Brands
In light of the findings, some brands have responded proactively:
- Paras and EGN cinnamon powders have confirmed they will remove their products from the market.
- Deep and Yu Yee brands stated they relied on supplier testing.
- Mimi’s Products claimed their products do not exceed safe levels according to vendor reports.
Consumer Reports also attempted to reach out to other brands mentioned in the report, including Badia, Rani Brand, and Bowl & Basket, but received limited responses. For those interested, several popular store brands were found to be safe for consumption.
Safe Cinnamon Options Available
While the presence of unsafe products is concerning, Consumer Reports has identified several cinnamon and spice products deemed safe. Some recommended options include:
- Whole Foods 365 Organic Ground Cinnamon: 0.02 ppm
- Trader Joe’s Organic Ground Cinnamon: 0.69 ppm
- Costco’s Kirkland Signature Organic Saigon Cinnamon: 0.80 ppm
- McCormick Cinnamon: 0.23 ppm
- Great Value Ground Cinnamon: 0.79 ppm
These brands and products have been rigorously tested and meet safety standards, providing consumers with safer alternatives.
Understanding the Source of Lead in Cinnamon
Lead is a naturally occurring element found in the Earth’s crust. According to Laura Shumow, executive director of the American Spice Trade Association, cinnamon, sourced from the inner bark of Cinnamomum trees, can absorb trace amounts of lead present in soil and water. Additionally, lead contamination can occur during processing and packaging.
Harmful lead levels in cinnamon highlight the necessity for vigilant monitoring and consumer education regarding spice safety. Brands should commit to stringent testing and transparent reporting to ensure that their products are safe for consumption.
Recommendations for Consumers
Given the potential risks linked to cinnamon products, consumers are advised to take the following steps:
- Check Product Labels: Be vigilant about the brands you use. Refer to lists released by consumer safety groups for up-to-date information.
- Discard Unsafe Products: If you find any of the identified brands in your kitchen, dispose of them immediately.
- Choose Safer Alternatives: Opt for brands recognized as safe, such as Whole Foods and Trader Joe’s.
As we learn more about lead levels in cinnamon, it’s important for shoppers to stay informed and careful. This helps keep themselves and their families healthy.
