The recall of cinnamon powder, which was feared to contain lead, was classified as a potential public health risk and affected consumers in five states.
About 270 packets of Asli cinnamon powder, sold in 200g clear plastic bags, were recalled on August 29 over concerns that the spice might be contaminated with lead. Now, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has issued an update assessing the severity of the case.
The company behind the product, Asli Fine Foods of Woodridge, Illinois, initiated the recall. The move comes amid a nationwide recall of cinnamon, with the Asli product just the latest on the list of brands being removed from stores.
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Lead is a toxic metal. Long-term exposure to it can cause brain damage and kidney dysfunction in adults. Babies and children can suffer from developmental disorders and learning difficulties.
On Monday, the FDA classified the Asli recall as a Class II health hazard, meaning the product “may cause temporary or medically reversible adverse health consequences.” The classification is also used “when the likelihood of serious adverse health consequences is remote.”
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There are three FDA recall classification classes in total. Class I is the most serious warning and includes the potential for serious health consequences or death. Class III states that the affected product is not likely to cause health problems.
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No cases of illness have been reported until last month.
The brand’s recall affects consumers in five states. Asli has distributed its cinnamon in stores in Illinois, Minnesota, Indiana, Missouri and Ohio. Shoppers who purchased Asli Cinnamon Powder 7 oz are urged to return the product to where they purchased it for a full refund.
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The recall followed a routine sampling program conducted by the Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services that raised concerns that the finished products contained lead.
It is unclear how the contamination occurred. Newsweek Asli Fine Foods has asked for comment via email.
The FDA said there is “no known safe level of lead exposure.” In a statement on the mass recall of various cinnamon products, an agency spokesperson said: “The FDA believes that consumption of these products could result in elevated blood lead levels. Long-term exposure (months to years) to elevated levels of lead in the diet could result in adverse health effects, particularly in those members of the population who may already have elevated blood lead levels from other lead exposures.”
Other brands recalled include Gutierrez, El Chilar, Marcum, SWAD, Supreme Tradition, Compania Indillor Orientale, ALB Flavor, Shahzada, Spice Class and La Frontera.
