Cinnamon products sold at Dollar Tree and Family Dollar stores have been recalled due to lead contamination, following an alert from the Food and Drug Administration. Officials warn of the health risks, especially to children, and urge consumers to choose spices from reputable brands.
Lead-contaminated cinnamon products have been recalled in the United States, following alerts from the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) regarding the presence of lead in these products sold at Dollar Tree and Family Dollar stores. This issue comes on the heels of a related incident where cinnamon applesauce pouches were recalled due to lead poisoning cases involving children in several states. The brands Marcum and Supreme Tradition have been identified to contain lead levels between 2 to 4 parts per million (ppm), which is below the levels found in the previously mentioned applesauce but still a cause for concern.
The American Spice Trade Association has set a recommendation for spices, including cinnamon, to contain no more than 2 ppm of lead, though the FDA does not currently have a specific limit for heavy metals in spices. The origin of the lead contamination in the cinnamon products has not been pinpointed, but it is acknowledged that lead can enter spices from various sources such as environmental pollution and the manufacturing process.
Health officials have highlighted the risks associated with lead exposure, particularly for children, as it can have long-lasting health impacts. In response to these recalls and potential risk of lead exposure, consumers are being advised to buy spices from reputable brands that actively monitor and ensure the safety of their source materials. Investigations into the lead contamination are ongoing, with emphasis on the importance of cautious selection of food products to maintain health and safety.
