A recent investigation by Consumer Reports has raised alarm over the safety of ground cinnamon, with elevated levels of lead found in multiple brands.
Following the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) recall of several cinnamon products earlier this year due to lead contamination, Consumer Reports tested 36 ground cinnamon and spice blend products for lead content, uncovering concerning findings.
Of the 36 cinnamon products tested, 12 were found to have lead levels exceeding 1 part per million (ppm), which would trigger a recall in New York, the only state with regulations for heavy metals in spices. The brands with the highest lead content included Paras cinnamon powder (3.52 ppm), EGN cinnamon powder (2.91 ppm), and Mimi’s Products ground cinnamon (2.03 ppm). These products have been flagged as potentially harmful, especially for frequent users.
Consumer Reports also highlighted six brands as the safest for consumers. Among them were 365 Whole Food Market organic ground cinnamon (0.02 ppm) and Morton & Bassett San Francisco 100% organic ground cinnamon (0.04 ppm), both with minimal lead content. McCormick ground cinnamon, a well-known brand, was found to have a moderate level of lead (0.23 ppm), considered safe for limited use.
Lead contamination in cinnamon can occur due to environmental factors, such as the soil and water where cinnamon is grown, particularly in regions with past industrial activity. Improper handling during production can also introduce lead into the final product.
While there is no known safe level of lead exposure, experts stress that small, occasional consumption of cinnamon is unlikely to pose immediate health risks. However, frequent exposure, especially for children, can lead to long-term health concerns, including neurodevelopmental issues. Consumers are encouraged to check the source of their cinnamon and consider diversifying their spice use to minimize risk.
In response to the investigation, some companies, including Paras and EGN, have pledged to pull their products from the market, while others, like Mimi’s Products and Badia Spices, maintain that their products meet safety standards.
Consumer Reports advises consumers to remain vigilant and prioritize brands with lower lead content to reduce the risk of long-term exposure.
