Are you unknowingly poisoning yourself? What you need to know about the FDA recall on cinnamon powder
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In the cozy comfort of our kitchens, we often sprinkle cinnamon onto our morning oatmeal or into our favorite cookie recipe with a sense of nostalgia and warmth.
After all, cinnamon adds that sweet and slightly spicy flavor that elevates just about anything you pair it with. Who would ever think that something so sweet could also be harmful?
This recent FDA recall might have you double-checking your spice rack. Here’s why a common household spice could be a hidden source of danger.
The FDA has issued a recall for Super Cinnamon Powder, a product distributed by IHA Beverage, after routine sampling by the Arkansas Department of Health revealed alarmingly high levels of lead.
Although IHA Beverage announced their voluntary recall November 18, the Super Cinnamon Powder joined a list of 10 other cinnamon products previously recalled for the same issue by the FDA on November 1.
The Super Cinnamon Powder in question is packaged in a 4oz plastic bag, labeled as Super Dried Cinnamon Powder, with the UPC number 610232012476.
It's important to note that this product was sold in retail stores across California and a few other locations nationwide, though not online. Fortunately, according to the FDA, “The company has ceased the distribution of the product as they continue their investigation as to what caused the problem.”
As of the recall date, no illnesses have been linked to the Super Cinnamon Powder. However, the potential for lead poisoning cannot be ignored.
Lead is a toxic metal that can cause serious health problems, especially with long-term exposure. The CDC warns that even short-term exposure can lead to symptoms such as abdominal pain, nausea, and a metallic taste in the mouth, while long-term exposure can result in depression, irritability, and memory loss.
If you have this cinnamon powder in your pantry, the FDA advises you to stop using it immediately. “Exposure to these products may be unsafe,” the alert said. “The FDA is advising consumers to throw away and not to buy these ground cinnamon products.”
Do not eat, sell, or serve the product. Instead, dispose of it or return it to the place of purchase for a full refund. If you suspect you've been exposed to the contaminated spice, contact your healthcare provider promptly.
For any specific concerns, you may reach out to the company at 323-724-8551 on Monday to Friday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. PT.
Lead exposure is a serious concern. This heavy metal can be found in small amounts in the earth’s crust.
Although it is used for burning fossil fuels, mining, and battery production, when ingested, it can accumulate in the body over time, leading to a range of health issues, particularly in children and pregnant women, who are most vulnerable to its effects.
To check yourself for signs of lead exposure, the CDC provided this list of symptoms:
Exposure to elevated levels of lead for a short period of time
Have you checked your spices yet? Do you have any tips for ensuring the safety of the food products you buy? Share your thoughts and experiences in the comments below!
After all, cinnamon adds that sweet and slightly spicy flavor that elevates just about anything you pair it with. Who would ever think that something so sweet could also be harmful?
This recent FDA recall might have you double-checking your spice rack. Here’s why a common household spice could be a hidden source of danger.
The FDA has issued a recall for Super Cinnamon Powder, a product distributed by IHA Beverage, after routine sampling by the Arkansas Department of Health revealed alarmingly high levels of lead.
Although IHA Beverage announced their voluntary recall November 18, the Super Cinnamon Powder joined a list of 10 other cinnamon products previously recalled for the same issue by the FDA on November 1.
Super Cinnamon Powder has been voluntarily recalled due to elevated lead levels as per the FDA announcement. Image source: Food and Drug Administration.
The Super Cinnamon Powder in question is packaged in a 4oz plastic bag, labeled as Super Dried Cinnamon Powder, with the UPC number 610232012476.
It's important to note that this product was sold in retail stores across California and a few other locations nationwide, though not online. Fortunately, according to the FDA, “The company has ceased the distribution of the product as they continue their investigation as to what caused the problem.”
As of the recall date, no illnesses have been linked to the Super Cinnamon Powder. However, the potential for lead poisoning cannot be ignored.
Lead is a toxic metal that can cause serious health problems, especially with long-term exposure. The CDC warns that even short-term exposure can lead to symptoms such as abdominal pain, nausea, and a metallic taste in the mouth, while long-term exposure can result in depression, irritability, and memory loss.
If you have this cinnamon powder in your pantry, the FDA advises you to stop using it immediately. “Exposure to these products may be unsafe,” the alert said. “The FDA is advising consumers to throw away and not to buy these ground cinnamon products.”
Do not eat, sell, or serve the product. Instead, dispose of it or return it to the place of purchase for a full refund. If you suspect you've been exposed to the contaminated spice, contact your healthcare provider promptly.
For any specific concerns, you may reach out to the company at 323-724-8551 on Monday to Friday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. PT.
Lead exposure is a serious concern. This heavy metal can be found in small amounts in the earth’s crust.
Although it is used for burning fossil fuels, mining, and battery production, when ingested, it can accumulate in the body over time, leading to a range of health issues, particularly in children and pregnant women, who are most vulnerable to its effects.
To check yourself for signs of lead exposure, the CDC provided this list of symptoms:
Exposure to elevated levels of lead for a short period of time
- Metallic taste
- Abdominal pain, nausea or vomiting
- Diarrhea or constipation
- Dehydration, headache, exhaustion, irritability or weakness
- Appetite loss
- Memory loss
- Pain or tingling in your hands or feet
- Abdominal pain, nausea, and constipation
- Depression, irritability, and altered moods or behaviors
- Distraction and forgetfulness
Have you checked your spices yet? Do you have any tips for ensuring the safety of the food products you buy? Share your thoughts and experiences in the comments below!
