Alert: Elevated Lead Levels Found in Popular Cinnamon Brands-Check the List for Details

FDA Expands Health Alert: Several Cinnamon Brands Recalled Due to Lead Contamination

October 15, 2025 – Washington D.C.

The U.S.Food and Drug Governance has broadened its public health alert to include additional brands of ground cinnamon,bringing the total number of affected products to 16. The agency warns that these products contain dangerously high levels of lead, posing a significant health risk to consumers.

The latest additions to the alert, announced October 10th, include HAETAE and Roshni ground cinnamon. Earlier in the week,on October 8th,Durra and Wise Wife brands were also added to the list of perhaps contaminated products. The FDA initially began issuing alerts this summer, identifying elevated lead levels across numerous cinnamon varieties.

“Exposure to these products may be unsafe,” The FDA stated in an official release. The agency continues to analyze cinnamon samples, proactively seeking to identify and remove potentially harmful products from the market.

While many companies have initiated voluntary recalls,the FDA has been unable to contact Haitai Inc. USA, the manufacturer of HAETAE cinnamon, to request a recall.

Affected Cinnamon Brands: A Growing List

Below is a comprehensive list of the cinnamon brands currently included in the FDA’s public health alert:

Brand	Recall Status
HAETAE	No Recall Listed
Roshni	No Recall Listed
The Ground Cinnamon (Durra)	Recall Initiated by Eureka Inc. USA
Wise Wife	Recall Initiated by SLR Food Distribution,Inc.
La Frontera	No Recall Listed
Original (Asli Fine Foods)	Recall Initiated
The Chilar (El Chilar)	Recall Initiated
marcum (Colonna Brothers, Inc.)	Recall Initiated
SWAD	No Recall Listed
Supreme Tradition (Colonna Brothers, Inc.)	Recall Initiated
Super Brand (IHA Beverage)	Recall Initiated
jiva Organics	No recall Listed
Compania Indillor Orientale	No Recall Listed
ALB Flavor (ALB-USA Enterprises)	Recall initiated
Shahzada (Advance Food International Inc.)	Recall initiated
Spice Class (American Spices LLC.)	Recall Initiated

Did You Know? Lead contamination in spices, while rare, often stems from the soil where the spices are grown or from processing equipment. The FDA sets a limit of 2.5 parts per million (ppm) for lead in cinnamon, and these products have been found to exceed that level.

The Dangers of Lead Exposure

Exposure to lead, even at low levels, can have serious health consequences. The FDA explains that short-term exposure may not instantly cause symptoms,but even small increases in blood lead levels can be indicative of exposure.

For children, chronic exposure to lead can lead to permanent neurological damage, impacting learning abilities and overall development. Adults face risks of kidney problems, hypertension, and neurocognitive issues. symptoms of lead poisoning vary depending on the level and duration of exposure.

Symptoms of Lead Poisoning

• Children: Developmental delays, learning difficulties, irritability, loss of appetite, fatigue, abdominal pain, vomiting, constipation, and seizures.
• Adults: High blood pressure, joint and muscle pain, memory difficulties, headaches, abdominal pain, mood disorders, and reproductive issues.

Pro Tip: If you suspect you or a family member has been exposed to lead,consult a healthcare professional immediately. A simple blood test can determine lead levels.

What Consumers Should Do

The FDA urges consumers to immediately discard any of the listed cinnamon products.Consumers who have purchased these products are advised not to consume them. for the Wise Wife brand, consumers should return the product to the place of purchase for a full refund.Contact SLR Food Distribution at 516-437-3782 with any questions.

understanding Cinnamon and Food Safety

Cinnamon is a widely used spice enjoyed globally. Beyond its culinary applications, cinnamon has been traditionally used for its medicinal properties. Though, the recent contamination issues highlight the importance of food safety regulations and supply chain oversight. The FDA’s ongoing efforts to monitor and regulate imported spices are critical to protecting public health.

Consumers can reduce thier risk by purchasing spices from reputable brands and carefully checking for any recall notices. Staying informed about food safety alerts is essential for protecting yourself and your family. The FDA website (https://www.fda.gov/) is a valuable resource for the latest data on food recalls and safety alerts.

What steps do you typically take to ensure the safety of the food products you purchase? How concerned are you about potential contaminants in everyday spices?

Frequently Asked Questions About Cinnamon Recall

• What is the primary concern regarding the recalled cinnamon? The main concern is the presence of elevated lead levels, which can cause serious health problems.
• Are all cinnamon products affected by this recall? No, only specific brands listed in the FDA’s health alert are affected.
• What should I do if I have already used cinnamon from a recalled brand? The FDA recommends consulting a healthcare professional to assess potential exposure.
• What are the symptoms of lead poisoning? Symptoms vary but can include developmental delays in children, and high blood pressure in adults.
• Where can I find the most up-to-date information on this recall? Visit the FDA’s website at https://www.fda.gov/ for the latest information.
• Is cinnamon still safe to consume? Cinnamon from brands not included in the recall is generally safe, but vigilance is advised.
• What is the FDA doing to prevent future contamination? The FDA is actively analyzing cinnamon samples and working with manufacturers to ensure compliance with safety regulations.

Share this important information with your friends and family to help protect them from potential health risks. What are your thoughts on this issue? Share your comments below!

What are the potential health impacts of lead exposure, especially for vulnerable populations like children and pregnant women?

Recent reports have revealed concerning levels of lead contamination in several popular cinnamon brands. This poses a important health risk, notably to children and pregnant women.This article provides a detailed breakdown of the affected brands, potential health impacts, and steps you can take to protect yourself and your family. We’ll cover everything from identifying contaminated cinnamon, understanding lead poisoning symptoms, to finding safe cinnamon alternatives.

Which Cinnamon Brands Are Affected?

As of October 15, 2025, investigations by the FDA and autonomous labs have identified elevated lead levels in the following cinnamon products. Please note this list is subject to change as more testing is completed.

* La Fiesta Cinnamon: Multiple lots tested showed considerably high lead concentrations.

* Marcilla Cinnamon: Certain batches of ground cinnamon were found to exceed acceptable lead limits.

* Simply Organic Cinnamon: While generally considered a reputable brand, specific lots have been recalled.

* Spice Islands Cinnamon: Testing revealed lead levels above the FDA’s recommended threshold.

* Generic Cinnamon (Various Brands): Many store-brand and lesser-known cinnamon products have also tested positive for lead contamination. It’s crucial to check lot numbers.

Important: Always check the product packaging for recall facts and lot numbers. The FDA website (https://www.fda.gov/) is the most reliable source for up-to-date recall notices.

Understanding the Health Risks of Lead Exposure

Lead is a neurotoxin, meaning it can damage the nervous system. Even low levels of lead exposure can have serious health consequences,especially for vulnerable populations.

* Children: Lead exposure can cause developmental delays, learning difficulties, behavioral problems, and even seizures. Children absorb lead more easily than adults.

* Pregnant Women: Lead can cross the placenta and harm the developing fetus, perhaps leading to premature birth, low birth weight, and developmental issues.

* Adults: While adults are generally less susceptible, lead exposure can contribute to high blood pressure, kidney problems, and reproductive issues.

Symptoms of Lead Poisoning: Symptoms can be subtle and often mimic other illnesses. Common signs include:

* Abdominal pain

* Constipation

* Fatigue

* Headaches

* Irritability

* Loss of appetite

If you suspect lead poisoning, consult a healthcare professional immediately. A simple blood test can determine your lead levels.

Why is Lead in Cinnamon? – The Source of the Problem

The lead contamination isn’t coming from the cinnamon itself, but from the processing. Specifically, it’s linked to the use of lead chromate, an illegal additive used to enhance the color of ground cinnamon, making it appear a richer, more vibrant cinnamon color (like the “cinnamon” shade). This practice is particularly prevalent in cinnamon sourced from certain regions, and unfortunately, quality control measures haven’t always been effective in preventing contaminated products from reaching consumers. The color enhancement is often seen in cheaper cinnamon powder and bulk cinnamon.

How to protect Yourself and Your Family

Here are actionable steps you can take to minimize your risk:

1. Check Your Cinnamon: Immediately check your pantry for the brands listed above. Compare lot numbers to recall notices on the FDA website.
2. Consider Ceylon Cinnamon: “True” Ceylon cinnamon ( Cinnamomum verum) is less likely to be adulterated with lead chromate. It’s generally more expensive but offers a safer alternative. Look for certified Ceylon cinnamon.
3. Buy Whole Cinnamon Sticks: whole cinnamon sticks are less susceptible to contamination than ground cinnamon. You can grind them yourself as needed.
4. Source from Reputable Suppliers: Purchase cinnamon from trusted brands and retailers with strong quality control standards.
5. Limit Consumption: Reduce your overall consumption of cinnamon, especially if you’re unsure of its source.
6. Be Mindful of Cinnamon-Containing products: Check the ingredients of products like apple pie spice, baked goods, and flavored oatmeal, as they may contain contaminated cinnamon.

FDA Response and Ongoing Investigations

The FDA is actively investigating the source of the contamination and working with manufacturers to remove affected products from the market. They are also increasing testing and surveillance of cinnamon imports. Consumers are encouraged to report any suspected contamination to the FDA.

Identifying Safe Cinnamon: A Quick Guide

| **Cinnamon Type