New York Health Department: Heed FDA alert on certain ground cinnamon products containing high levels of lead

The New York State Department of Health and the State Department of Agriculture and Markets is urging consumers to take notice of an alert, which was released earlier this month by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), regarding certain ground cinnamon products containing high levels of lead.

The FDA initiated a targeted survey of these ground cinnamon products from discount retail stores and analyzed the samples for lead and chromium.

This action follows the October 2023 recall of cinnamon apple puree and applesauce products due to elevated lead levels linked to the cinnamon in those products and the concern for lead toxicity in children. "We know that lead is harmful to a child's growth, behavior, and ability to learn which is why it is critically important that everyone heed this warning and dispose of any products if you have them,” said State Health Commissioner Dr. James McDonald.

"Parents should contact their child's health care provider if they suspect their child has consumed any of these recalled products, keeping in mind that children can look and feel healthy even when they've been exposed to lead."

"Protecting the health and safety of New Yorkers is a top priority here at the Department,” said State Agriculture Commissioner Richard A. Ball.

"For over 10 years, the Department has been monitoring and removing spices contaminated with lead from the marketplace. In light of the FDA's recent alert regarding elevated levels of lead in certain brands of cinnamon, we are urging New York families to check their shelves and immediately dispose of any of the products noted in the alert. As we learn more from FDA, the Department will work with the State's retail food establishments to ensure that these products are removed from stores. We will continue to follow this issue closely and keep consumers and retail stores informed."

See the official FDA alert here.

FDA image.