Recall Alert: Stop using this common cooking spice, FDA warns, as recall expands

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration is expanding a public health alert, first issued in 2024, warning consumers about elevated lead levels found in ground cinnamon products from 16 different brands.

The agency found high levels of lead in certain products, which it warns pose a safety risk to consumers. According to the FDA, exposure to high levels of lead can cause “adverse health effects,” with significant risks for pregnant women, infants and young children. These risks include potential neurological effects such as learning disabilities, behavioral problems and a decreased IQ.

The FDA has recommended that the companies voluntarily recall the affected products. The agency noted that it has been unable to reach Haitai Inc. USA, the distributor for the HAETAE brand cinnamon.

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