FDA Expands Urgent Cinnamon Recall to 16 Brands Over Lead Risk

UPDATE: The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has just announced a significant expansion of its recall for ground cinnamon, now affecting a total of 16 brands due to troubling levels of lead. This urgent update comes after state-level product testing revealed the unsafe levels, which have now been confirmed by the FDA.

The newly recalled brands include:

– HAETAE
– Roshni
– Wise Wife
– La Frontera
– Durra (sold in California and Michigan)
– El Chilar (available at El Torito Market)
– Marcum (found at Save-A-Lot Food Stores)
– SWAD (sold at Patel Brothers)
– Supreme Tradition (available at Dollar Tree)
– Compania Indillor Orientale (found at Eurogrocery)
– ALB Flavor (sold at Eurogrocery)
– Shahzada (available at Premium Supermarket)
– Spice Class (sold at Fish World)
– Jiva Organics (sold at Taj Supermarket in California)
– Super Brand (found at Asian Supermarket in Little Rock, Arkansas)
– Asli (available at A&Y Global Market in Columbia, Missouri)

Consumers are urged to immediately refrain from purchasing these products and to dispose of any already in their possession. The consumption of cinnamon with elevated lead levels poses serious health risks, including potential increases in lead levels in the blood, which can lead to severe health complications.

The FDA has confirmed that no related illnesses or adverse events have been reported as of September 2023. However, the agency is taking proactive measures, stating,

“The FDA is continuing to analyze cinnamon and review sample results received from state partners who have been continuously sampling ground cinnamon at retail for elevated levels of lead.”

An investigation is currently underway to assess additional brands that may be affected. While the FDA has recommended a voluntary recall for all implicated products, they have yet to establish contact with Haitai Inc., the producer of the HAETAE-brand cinnamon.

This expansion of the cinnamon recall is a developing story that underscores the importance of food safety and consumer awareness. Stay tuned for more updates as the situation evolves.

For those who have purchased any of the recalled products, it is critical to take action immediately for your health and safety. Share this information with friends and family to ensure everyone is informed.