High Lead Levels Found in Some Cinnamon Brands: Is Cinnamon Still Safe for Consumption
With the cozy season in full swing, many home chefs are reaching for their spice cabinets to prepare seasonal favorites like pumpkin pies, cinnamon rolls, and lattes. However, recent reports from Consumer Reports (CR) have raised concerns over the safety of certain cinnamon brands, bringing the spotlight on potential contamination. The nonprofit organization revealed that some cinnamon powders and spice blends contained alarming levels of lead, prompting consumers to question whether it’s still safe to use cinnamon in their cooking.
In this article, we’ll break down the findings, the potential risks, and how you can make safer choices when shopping for cinnamon.
Lead Contamination Found in Multiple Cinnamon Brands
Consumer Reports, known for evaluating product safety and quality, tested a variety of cinnamon powders and multi-spice blends from 12 brands. Unfortunately, several samples were found to contain lead levels exceeding 1 part per million (ppm) — a threshold used by New York State to identify products that should be recalled.
Some of the brands flagged by CR include:
Paras
EGN
Mimi’s Products
Bowl & Basket
Rani Brand
Zara Foods
Three Rivers
Yu Yee Brand
BaiLiFeng
Spicy King
Badia
Deep
These findings are concerning, as prolonged exposure to lead — even in trace amounts — can have significant health impacts. CR’s food safety experts recommend avoiding these products to minimize risks.
What Makes Lead in Cinnamon Dangerous?
According to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), long-term exposure to elevated levels of lead can contribute to serious health problems, including:
High blood pressure
Muscle and joint pain
Memory and mood disorders
Abdominal pain and headaches
Reproductive issues
Children under the age of six are particularly vulnerable to lead poisoning. Symptoms in children may include learning difficulties, developmental delays, weight loss, fatigue, and in severe cases, seizures or hearing loss.
Cinnamon Safety: What Experts Recommend
While lead contamination has been detected in specific ground cinnamon products, not all cinnamon brands are affected. Dietitian Caroline Thomason, RD, CDCES, emphasized that the concern revolves mostly around certain ground cinnamon products. “The recent reports about lead contamination in cinnamon are definitely concerning, but the good news is that not all brands are affected, and it seems to be only ground cinnamon,” Thomason told USA TODAY.
She advises consumers to opt for brands that test for heavy metals or have been certified safe by a reputable third party. Staying informed about product safety can allow consumers to enjoy their favorite fall recipes while minimizing risks.
Cinnamon Alternatives That Passed Safety Tests
CR’s report also highlighted several cinnamon brands and products that tested below the 1 ppm threshold, making them safer options for your spice rack:
McCormick Cinnamon – 0.23 ppm
Kirkland Signature Organic Saigon Cinnamon – 0.80 ppm
Great Value Ground Cinnamon – 0.79 ppm
Trader Joe’s Organic Ground Cinnamon – 0.69 ppm
Good & Gather Ground Cinnamon – 0.56 ppm
Simply Organic Cinnamon – 0.28 ppm
365 Whole Foods Market Ground Cinnamon – 0.12 ppm
365 Whole Foods Market Organic Ground Cinnamon – 0.02 ppm
Sadaf Cinnamon Powder – 0.04 ppm
These brands can provide peace of mind for consumers looking to enjoy the benefits of cinnamon without the risk of lead contamination.
Understanding the Origins and Benefits of Cinnamon
Cinnamon comes from the inner bark of evergreen trees native to Sri Lanka, Myanmar, and parts of India, as well as regions in South America and the West Indies. After harvesting, the bark is dried and ground into powder, which is commonly found on grocery store shelves.
Beyond its warm, aromatic flavor, cinnamon offers several health benefits. Research shows that it has anti-inflammatory properties and can help reduce cholesterol, triglyceride, and blood sugar levels. These benefits are particularly helpful for people with type 2 diabetes. However, experts like those from Johns Hopkins Medicine caution that while cinnamon can complement a healthy diet, it isn’t a substitute for medication or other medical interventions for managing blood sugar.
Thomason adds that cinnamon “is like fall’s cozy blanket for your food,” noting that it pairs well with everything from oatmeal to smoothies to roasted vegetables. “Try it on sweet potatoes,” she recommends for a seasonal twist.
Should You Be Worried About Using Cinnamon?
While lead contamination in some cinnamon products is a serious issue, it doesn’t mean you have to eliminate cinnamon from your diet altogether. Thomason encourages consumers to be mindful of where their cinnamon is sourced. “It doesn’t negate cinnamon’s benefits, but it’s a reminder to be cautious about the sources of our spices,” she says.
The key is to stick to high-quality brands that have undergone testing for heavy metals. Although the health benefits of cinnamon are well-documented, it’s crucial not to overlook potential contaminants.
Final Thoughts: Is Cinnamon Still Safe to Use?
If you love adding cinnamon to your seasonal dishes, there’s no need to panic. While some brands have been flagged for elevated lead content, many popular cinnamon products remain safe to use. Look for brands that prioritize safety and transparency in their sourcing practices.
As you prepare your pumpkin pies, cinnamon coffee cakes, and festive lattes this season, you can still enjoy the comforting flavors of cinnamon — just ensure you’re buying from trusted sources. By being aware of potential risks and choosing products that have passed safety tests, you can enjoy the benefits of this popular fall spice without worry.
With these precautions in mind, you can confidently celebrate the season with all the cinnamon-flavored treats you love, knowing that safety is just as important as flavor.
Source : Swifteradio.com
