According to the FDA, Ozone Park, New York-based American Spices, LLC, has recalled its Spice Class brand Ground Cinnamon after an analysis performed by New York State Department of Agriculture and Markets (NYSAGM) showed the product to contain high than acceptable levels of lead.
The recall, announced by the company on July 29, 2024, follows a similar recall that was initiated by ALB-USA Enterprises, Inc., on July 26, after an analysis by the Connecticut Agriculture Experiment Station (CAES) revealed a contamination of elevated lead levels.
Consumers should note that while those who experience brief exposure to marginal levels of lead may not exhibit any symptoms, the only obvious sign of lead exposure may just be increased blood lead levels. Those exposed to lead more chronically and at more acute or higher levels, are more likely to show other signs and symptoms. Whether or not lead impacts every bodily system depends on the level and duration of the exposure, as well as the age and body weight of an individual.
In children, protracted exposure (a duration anywhere from weeks to months) could permanently impair the central nervous system and lead to long-term health problems such as learning disorders and developmental defects. Chronic exposure to lead in adults has shown a correlation with “kidney dysfunction, hypertension, and neurocognitive effects.”
Distributed to retail locations in the New York City area from December 1, 2023 to May 15, 2024, affected Spice Class brand Ground Cinnamon products come in 7-ounce and 11-ounce PET jars bearing the expiration date “12/2026.” Officials noted that the recall does not impact any products sold online.
While American Spices, LLC, has not received any reports of illness to date, all production and distribution of the product has been suspended pending a joint investigation by the company and the FDA to uncover the origin of the issue.
Anyone who may have a recalled product in their possession is instructed to take the item back to the point of purchase for a complete refund. Further questions may be addressed to the company at 1-917-532-6768.
If you believe chronic and/or acute exposure to lead in a packaged food item has caused you or a loved one to suffer an adverse health outcome, we would like to learn about your story. Our experienced attorneys at TruLaw are personally invested in defending the rights of consumers like you and holding negligent parties responsible. We are prepared to help you build a case for justice and compensation you deserve. Contact us today or try out our free Instant Case Evaluation ℠ to get started.