High Lead Levels Found in Cinnamon Powders: Consumer Reports
Are you a fan of sprinkling cinnamon on your morning oatmeal or adding a touch of spice to your favorite recipe? Well, you may want to think twice before reaching for that jar of ground cinnamon. According to Consumer Reports, a shocking third of the cinnamon powders they tested had alarmingly high levels of lead.
The nonprofit consumer group’s testing revealed that 12 brands of ground cinnamon products and spice mixtures contained lead levels above 1 part per million. This finding comes shortly after the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) issued warnings about 17 ground cinnamon products that posed a risk due to lead contamination.
Among the cinnamon powders with the highest lead levels were Paras Cinnamon Powder, EGN Cinnamon Powder, Mimi’s Products Ground Cinnamon, and several others. Consumer Reports advised consumers to steer clear of these products, as just a quarter teaspoon contained more lead than is deemed safe for daily consumption.
On a more positive note, Consumer Reports also identified six cinnamon products with the lowest risk of lead contamination, including options like 365 Whole Foods Market Ground Cinnamon and Sadaf Cinnamon Powder. These alternatives provide safer choices for consumers looking to enjoy the flavor of cinnamon without the worry of lead exposure.
It’s essential to be mindful of what we consume, as lead exposure can have serious health implications, especially for children. So, the next time you reach for that bottle of ground cinnamon, be sure to check the label and opt for a safer option to protect yourself and your loved ones.
As the FDA continues to monitor food products for lead levels, it’s crucial for consumers to stay informed and make smart choices when it comes to their food purchases. By being vigilant about potential contaminants like lead, we can all work towards a safer and healthier food supply for everyone.
The Associated Press contributed to this report.
