The FDA Warns Consumers to Stop Using Several Brands of Cinnamon Due to Possible Lead Contamination

Check your spice rack—the United States Food and Drug Administration is warning consumers to stop using six brands of cinnamon due to possible lead contamination.

The alert is a response to an October 2023 FDA recall that included several brands of children's cinnamon-flavored applesauce pouches. The products were recalled due to elevated lead levels linked to the cinnamon in the pouches, according to the FDA.

Now, the agency has initiated a targeted survey of ground cinnamon products commonly sold at discount retail stores and analyzed the samples for lead and chromium. Based on the results, the FDA is recommending recalls of ground cinnamon from six distributors whose products had elevated lead levels.

Per the FDA's statement, consuming these products could contribute to elevated levels of lead in the blood. Long-term exposure to elevated levels of lead in the diet could contribute to adverse health effects. If you are concerned that you or anyone in your family may have symptoms of lead toxicity, the FDA recommends you contact your healthcare provider. 

The agency is also advising consumers to stop using and dispose of these products. Since these products have a long shelf life, consumers should do a thorough check of their pantries to ensure these cinnamon products are safely discarded.