The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has issued a new warning about lead contamination in ground cinnamon, adding El Servidor to a growing list of affected brands. This latest alert brings the total number of recalled or warned-against cinnamon products to at least ten since October 2023, raising serious concerns about consumer safety.
Brands to Avoid Due to Lead Contamination
Consumers are urged to check their pantries and discard any of the following cinnamon products:
- Ground Cinnamon: El Servidor, La Fiesta, Marcum, MK, Swad, Supreme Tradition, and El Chilar
- Apple-Cinnamon Pouches: WanaBana, Weis, and Schnucks
Despite efforts to reduce lead exposure in the U.S., such as phasing out leaded gasoline and banning lead-based paint, contamination continues to be a significant health risk. Lead can enter our environment and food supply through various channels, including lead-battery manufacturing, aviation gasoline, lead paint in older buildings, lead bullets, and intentional adulteration of food products for weight and color enhancement.
Lead Exposure: A Serious Health Threat
The FDA’s warning underscores the dangers of lead exposure, especially for vulnerable populations. There is no safe level of lead exposure, and children under six are particularly susceptible to its harmful effects due to their rapid development.
Varying Levels of Lead Contamination
Testing revealed alarming levels of lead in the affected cinnamon products. El Servidor ground cinnamon contained 20 parts per million (PPM) of lead, significantly higher than the other recalled ground cinnamon brands, which ranged from 2.03 to 3.4 PPM. Even more concerning, some WanaBana apple-cinnamon pouches contained a staggering 5,110 PPM of lead. While the FDA hasn’t established a specific lead limit for spices, the European Union prohibits the sale of cinnamon containing more than 2 PPM of lead.
Protecting Yourself and Your Family
Given the ongoing concerns about lead in cinnamon, consumers are advised to exercise caution. Carefully check labels before purchasing cinnamon products and dispose of any recalled items immediately. If you suspect lead contamination in any food product, report it to the FDA. Staying informed and vigilant is crucial for protecting yourself and your family from the harmful effects of lead exposure.
The Importance of Lead-Free Food
Lead contamination in food continues to be a global health concern. Ongoing vigilance and stricter regulations are necessary to ensure the safety and well-being of consumers, especially children.
This latest FDA alert serves as a stark reminder of the importance of food safety and the ongoing need for effective measures to prevent lead contamination in our food supply.
