Cinnamon, Spice, & Everything Lead? What’s Up with Lead in Cinnamon Anyway?

Consumer Reports tested 36 cinnamon and spice products for lead content and found that 12 of them contained lead levels above 1 part per million (ppm), which could trigger recalls in certain states. The presence of lead in cinnamon likely stems from contaminated water, soil, or intentional additives used to enhance the color or weight of the spice. Regardless of the source, lead contamination poses serious health risks, including high blood pressure, kidney damage, fertility problems, and neurological issues.

Brands to Avoid

Several cinnamon products were flagged for containing high levels of lead, making them unsafe for consumption. According to the report, the following brands should be avoided:

• Paras Cinnamon Powder
• EGN Cinnamon Powder
• Zara Foods Cinnamon Powder
• Badia Cinnamon Powder
• Deep Cinnamon Powder
• Mimi’s Products Ground Cinnamon
• Bowl & Basket (ShopRite) Ground Cinnamon
• Rani Brand Ground Cinnamon
• Yu Yee Brand Five Spice Powder
• BaiLiFeng Five Spice Powder
• Spicy King Five Spice Powder
• Three Rivers Cinnamon Stick Powder

These brands exceeded the recommended lead levels and may pose a risk to regular consumers, especially young children, pregnant women, and those with underlying health conditions.

Safer Brands

While the report found concerning lead levels in many products, several brands passed the test and were deemed safe for consumption. Some of the safest brands include:

• McCormick
• Trader Joe’s
• Kirkland Signature (Costco)
• Great Value (Walmart)
• Good & Gather (Target)

These brands did not show lead contamination in the tests, making them a safer choice for households concerned about lead exposure.

Lead contamination in cinnamon can happen in various ways, including through water or soil where the cinnamon tree grows. Additionally, some manufacturers may use lead chromate to artificially enhance the color or weight of the spice. Regardless of how lead enters the supply chain, it’s important for consumers to remain vigilant when choosing spices, especially those used frequently in cooking and baking.

The risks of long-term lead exposure are well-documented. According to the World Health Organization (WHO) and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), even low levels of lead can cause significant health problems. In children, lead exposure is linked to developmental delays, behavioral issues, and learning difficulties. In adults, lead exposure can result in high blood pressure, kidney dysfunction, and reproductive problems. Regular consumption of spices contaminated with lead could contribute to these health issues over time.

How to Stay Safe

To minimize your exposure to lead in cinnamon and other spices, follow these guidelines:

• Choose safer brands: Stick to brands that have been tested and shown to be free from lead contamination, such as McCormick, Trader Joe’s, and Kirkland Signature
• Check recalls: Stay updated on product recalls and safety reports regarding contaminated spices
• Store properly: Keep spices in airtight containers to prevent contamination from external factors
• Use in moderation: While cinnamon is a staple spice in many households, it’s important to use it in moderation, especially if you’re unsure about its lead content

Lead contamination in cinnamon is a growing concern, but with careful product selection, you can protect yourself and your family from the risks. Brands like McCormick and Trader Joe’s offer safer alternatives, while products from Paras, EGN, and others should be avoided. Keep informed, stay vigilant, and prioritize your health when purchasing and using spices in your kitchen.