The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has expanded it’s health alert regarding the recall of various spice products sold in some part of the U.S. due to concerns over high levels of lead contamination. This recall has affected several brands and products. However, this step by the FDA is crucial as the health risk associated with these products are serious especially to vulnerable groups like children and pregnant women. To be on the safe side you need to new products and brands affected by the latest recall update.
New products and brands added to the FDA recall list
In the most recent update, the FDA has identified additional spice products with lead contamination. These are the brands with the new products added to the recall list:
- Shahzada-Brand pulses and spices cinnamon powder:
Size: 7 ounces (200 grams).
Distribution: This product was distributed to retailers in Connecticut, Massachusetts, New Jersey, and New York between January 1 and May 24. It was not sold online yet, as a result, it was limited to only physical retai locations in the states.
Manufacturer: This product is produced by Advance Food International Inc.
- El Chilar-Brand Canela Molida (Ground Cinnamon):
Size: 1.25 ounces (35 grams).
Codes: The affected products bear a product code of 307 and one of two lot codes: E-054 EX0225 and D-181 EX0624.
Distribution: This product was sold only in Maryland.
Manufacturer: Produced by EL Chilar-HF LLC.
These products have been classified as Class II risks by the FDA. That means, there is a very low chance of serious health effects but, using the product might cause minor or temporary health problems which can be reversed with treatments.
Health risks associated with lead contamination
Lead is a naturally occurring toxic metal that, when present in your food products, can cause serious health problems. The FDA’s recall aims to warn the public and reduce the risk of lead exposure from these spices, which can have severe health implications in the long run, particularly for young children and pregnant women. Here’s a closer look at the health risks associated with prolonged exposure to lead:
- Impact on children: Children absorb lead more readily than adults so they are especially vulnerable to lead poisoning. If this continues for a time, it can result in serious health implications such as learning disabilities, developmental delays, hyperactivity, stunted growth, hearing loss, and anemia. In extremely severe cases, high levels of lead exposure can cause seizures, coma, or even death for children.
- Impact on pregnant women: Pregnant women exposed to lead can face serious complications, including miscarriage, stillbirth, premature birth, and low birth weight. According to the The World Health Organization (WHO), lead can have a significant effect on both mother and child.
- Impact on adults: Adults who are exposed to lead can experience several health challenges such as high blood pressure, kidney damage and cognitive decline. In some cases, it can lead exposure can deteriorate an existing medical condition.
Steps to take if you have purchased recalled products
If you have purchased any spice products recently, the FDA advises consumers to take the following steps:
- Check your pantry: Inspect your ground cinnamon or spice products you may have bought recently. Check the brand, size, and lot codes indicated in the recall notices.
- Discontinue usee immediately: If your product matches the description of the recalled items, you need to stop using it immediately. Make sure to not consume or cook with the contaminated spices to avoid endangering your health or that of your loved ones.
- Contact the manufacturer: For further guidance, support or if you want to report a reaction, you can contact the manufacturers directly. El Chilar can be reached at 407-880-6007, and Advance Food International Inc. is available at 718-482-0123. To get more information on returns, refunds and any other concerns you may have. .
- Consult your healthcare provider: If you suspect that you or your family member may have been exposed to lead through these products, it is advisable to visit your health care provider.
