A recent study has raised alarms about high levels of lead contamination in cinnamon, just a year after contaminated applesauce containing cinnamon left more than 500 children with lead poisoning. The latest findings bring attention to the dangers lurking in this commonly used spice, found in everything from baked goods to coffee and oatmeal.
According to Consumer Reports, one-third of the cinnamon and spice blends tested showed concerning lead levels. The tests examined products available at major grocery chains as well as stores specializing in international foods.
Among the 36 products tested from 17 stores across Connecticut, New Jersey, New York, and online platforms, 12 brands surpassed the lead safety limit of 1 part per million (ppm). This threshold, set by New York, is the only standard for heavy metals in spices in the U.S., per the advocacy group.
Brands to Avoid
Consumer Reports has advised people to stop using the following 12 cinnamon and spice blends that contain the highest levels of lead:
- Badia Cinnamon Powder
- BaiLiFeng Five Spice Powder
- Bowl & Basket Ground Cinnamon
- Deep Cinnamon Powder
- EGN Cinnamon Powder
- Mimi’s Products Ground Cinnamon
- Paras Cinnamon Powder
- Rani Brand Ground Cinnamon
- Spicy King Five Spices Powder
- Three Rivers Cinnamon Stick Powder
- Yu Yee Brand Five Spice Powder
- Zara Foods Cinnamon Powder
“If you have any of these products, we recommend you dispose of them,” said James Rogers, microbiologist and director of food safety research at Consumer Reports. “Even minimal exposure to lead is hazardous, as it can accumulate in the body over time and lead to serious long-term health issues.”
