cinnamon recall

An important food safety alert is impacting kitchens across the country. A major cinnamon recall has been expanded, with the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) now warning consumers about over 16 different brands of ground cinnamon found to contain potentially dangerous levels of lead.

If you have ground cinnamon in your pantry, it’s crucial to stop and check the label immediately. This recall, which began in July 2024, has been updated multiple times, meaning more and more products are being identified as unsafe.

In this article, we’ll break down everything you need to know in simple terms: which brands are affected, what the dangers are, and the exact steps you should take to protect your family.

Why is Cinnamon Being Recalled?

The recall is happening because routine testing found elevated levels of lead in these specific ground cinnamon products. Lead is a toxic heavy metal that is unsafe to consume, especially for children and pregnant women.

The FDA’s alert is very clear: “Exposure to these products may be unsafe.” Because the products have a long shelf life, they could still be in your home even if you bought them months ago.

A Growing Problem

This isn’t an isolated incident. In recent years, there has been a troubling increase in cinnamon and other spice products recalled for high lead levels. A 2024 study by Consumer Reports found concerning amounts of lead in a third of the cinnamon powders they tested from various stores. This expanding recall highlights an ongoing issue within the spice supply chain.

See the full list of recalled products below:

List of Recalled Cinnamon Brands: Check Your Pantry

The recall includes brands distributed nationwide through various retailers, including Patel Brothers, Save-A-Lot, and Dollar Tree. Here are some of the key brands identified in the FDA recall (as of the latest update):

  • Roshni

  • HAETAE

  • Durra

  • Wise Wife

  • Jiva Organics

  • Super Brand

  • Asli (Distributed by Asli Fine Foods, Woodbridge, IL)

  • El Chilar

  • Marcum (Sold at Save-A-Lot)

  • SWAD (Distributed by Raja Foods LLC, Skokie, IL)

  • Supreme Tradition (Sold at Dollar Tree)

  • Compania Indillor Orientale

  • ALB Flavor

  • Shahzada

  • Spice Class

  • La Frontera

What to do: The FDA strongly advises consumers to “throw away and not to buy these ground cinnamon products.” If you have one of these products, do not use it. Please check the official FDA recall page for the most current list and specific lot codes.

The Dangers of Lead Exposure: Know the Symptoms

Lead is a cumulative poison, meaning it builds up in the body over time. The FDA notes that “most people have no obvious immediate symptoms,” which makes it especially dangerous.

Symptoms in Adults

At higher levels of exposure, adults may experience:

  • Metallic taste in the mouth

  • Abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting

  • Headache, exhaustion, irritability

  • Memory loss

  • Pain or tingling in the hands or feet

  • High blood pressure

Special Risks for Children

Children are particularly vulnerable. Even low levels of exposure can cause serious and often irreversible problems, including:

  • Learning difficulties and low IQ

  • Behavioral changes (like irritability or hyperactivity)

  • Slowed growth and development

If you suspect you or your child has been exposed to lead, contact your healthcare provider immediately. They can perform a simple blood test to check lead levels.

FAQ: Your Cinnamon Recall Questions Answered

1. I have one of the recalled cinnamon products. What should I do?

Stop using it immediately. The FDA recommends you throw the product away in your regular household trash. To prevent anyone from retrieving it, you can place it in a sealed container or mix it with coffee grounds or cat litter before disposal.

2. Is all cinnamon unsafe now?

No, not at all. This recall targets specific brands and lot numbers. Major national brands of cinnamon found in most grocery stores are not part of this specific recall. However, it is always a good practice to buy spices from reputable brands and to be aware of food safety alerts.

3. Where can I find the latest recall information?

The best source for the most up-to-date information is the official FDA website. You can visit their Recalls, Market Withdrawals, & Safety Alerts page for a searchable database.

4. What if I already used some of the recalled cinnamon?

If you are concerned about potential exposure, the best course of action is to speak with your healthcare provider. They can assess your risk and recommend if a blood lead test is necessary.

5. Why is there lead in cinnamon?

Lead can contaminate spices at several points in the supply chain. It can be present in the soil where the cinnamon is grown, or it can be introduced during the drying, grinding, or packaging processes. In some cases, lead-based dyes or additives have been illegally used to enhance the color of certain spices.

Final Thoughts: Stay Informed and Stay Safe

Food recalls can be alarming, but being informed is your first line of defense. Take a few minutes to check your spice rack for any of the recalled brands. By acting quickly and disposing of these products, you can help ensure your family’s health and safety.

Share this article with friends and family to spread the word and help keep your community safe.

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