The US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has expanded an ongoing recall of ground cinnamon after identifying elevated levels of lead in products sold under 16 brand names. The affected products, available across numerous retail outlets, include both widely distributed and locally sold cinnamon brands.
The issue came to light following routine product testing by state agencies, later confirmed by the FDA. While no adverse health effects have been reported as of September, the agency is urging consumers to stop using and discard any of the listed products due to potential health risks.
Products Sold Under Multiple Retail Brands Flagged for Safety
The latest update from the FDA confirms that HAETAE, Roshni, Durra, and Wise Wife have been added to the initial list of recalled ground cinnamon products, which has grown steadily since the summer of 2024. These brands join others such as La Frontera, Supreme Tradition, SWAD, Marcum, and Jiva Organics in the public health advisory. Several of these are distributed through popular outlets like Dollar Tree, Patel Brothers, Save-A-Lot, and smaller ethnic grocery stores across various US states.
According to the FDA, the elevated levels of lead were first detected during state-level testing. The findings were subsequently confirmed by federal analysis. The agency has been unable to reach Haitai Inc., the company behind the HAETAE brand, and is yet to list a formal recall for some products such as Roshni and SWAD on its website.
A number of distributors, including Eureka Inc. USA for Durra and SLR Food Distribution, Inc. for Wise Wife, have issued voluntary recalls following FDA recommendations. Others, such as Colonna Brothers Inc. and Advance Food International Inc., have also acted on the alert by recalling affected products.
Health Concerns Rise Over Lead Contamination in Food Items
Exposure to lead — even at low levels — can lead to serious health consequences, particularly in children. The FDA stated: “Short-term exposures to very low levels of lead may not elicit any symptoms,” but chronic or acute exposure can result in a range of complications, from developmental delays in children to hypertension and kidney issues in adults.
According to the Mayo Clinic, symptoms of lead poisoning in children include learning difficulties, irritability, abdominal pain, and fatigue. Adults may experience mood disorders, joint pain, and memory issues. Pregnant women face additional risks, including miscarriage or premature birth.
The FDA has advised consumers to avoid purchasing the listed products and to dispose of any affected cinnamon already in their possession. While no illnesses linked to the recalled cinnamon have been reported, the agency’s investigation remains active and could expand to include further brands. For questions or refunds, some distributors, such as SLR Food Distribution, have made consumer contact lines available.
