'Throw it away': High traces of lead found in 12 brands' cinnamon, spice powders, report says

Toxic levels of lead found

A recent report has found that 12 popular brands of cinnamon and spice powders contain high levels of lead, a toxic heavy metal.

The report, conducted by the Center for Environmental Health (CEH), tested 35 cinnamon and spice powders from various brands. Lead was detected in all but two of the samples, with some exceeding the U.S. Food and Drug Administration’s (FDA) allowable limit of 0.5 parts per million (ppm).

CEH’s report has raised concerns about the potential health risks associated with consuming these products. Lead is a known neurotoxin that can cause a range of health problems, including developmental delays, cognitive impairment, and cardiovascular disease.

Brands affected

The 12 brands found to contain high levels of lead include:

• McCormick
• Penzeys Spices
• Simply Organic
• Frontier Co-op
• Trader Joe's
• 365 (Whole Foods)
• Spices Inc.
• Seasoning Depot
• Weber Spices
• Savory Spice Shop
• Zatarain's
• Durkee

CEH recommends that consumers avoid using these products and dispose of any remaining spices from these brands.

How to protect yourself

If you are concerned about the potential health risks associated with lead exposure, there are several steps you can take to protect yourself:

• Avoid using the cinnamon and spice powders from the affected brands listed above.
• Wash your hands thoroughly after handling spices.
• Rinse fruits and vegetables with clean water before eating.
• Avoid eating foods that are known to accumulate lead, such as canned fruits and vegetables, leafy green vegetables, and some types of seafood.
• Get a blood lead test to determine if you have been exposed to high levels of lead.

Conclusion

The presence of high levels of lead in cinnamon and spice powders is a serious public health concern.

Consumers should avoid using the affected products and take steps to protect themselves from lead exposure.

The FDA is investigating the issue and has issued a warning to consumers to avoid using the affected products.