Lead Detected in Cinnamon Products
A Consumer Reports study revealed that 12 brands of cinnamon and spice powders contain elevated levels of lead, prompting health warnings and recalls. The highest lead concentration was found in Paras cinnamon powder at 3.52 parts per million.
| Score | Value |
|---|---|
Scale | 7 |
Novelty | 6 |
Positivity | 2 |
Reliability | 8 |
Actionability | 7 |
Society | 8 |
Journalism | 5 |
Highlights
- Consumer Reports found high levels of lead in 12 out of 36 tested cinnamon and spice products.
- The highest lead level detected was 3.52 parts per million in Paras cinnamon powder.
- The FDA has issued public health alerts regarding cinnamon products with elevated lead levels.
- New York is the only U.S. state that regulates heavy metals in spices, with a recall threshold of 1 part per million.
- The report follows a previous incident where lead-tainted cinnamon applesauce sickened over 500 children.
Perspectives
- Health experts emphasize that even small amounts of lead can accumulate in the body and pose serious health risks, particularly for children, who are more vulnerable to lead's harmful effects. [29][30][33]
- There is a call for stronger regulations and testing requirements for heavy metals in food products, as the FDA currently lacks the authority to mandate such testing. [29][32][36]