The FDA has identified several ground cinnamon products with elevated lead levels. Last month, we told you about the Cinnamon Applesauce Pouches Recall due to lead. We hope you will share this information with your residents as well.
Exposure to high lead concentrations poses significant health risks, prompting an urgent advisory. Here’s what you need to know to protect yourself and your loved ones.
Elevated Lead Levels in Ground Cinnamon: What You Should Do
The FDA’s product testing has unveiled a concerning presence of lead in select ground cinnamon products. Lead, a toxic metal, can cause serious health problems, particularly in children and pregnant women, affecting brain development and leading to other health issues.
These products include:
La Fiesta Food Products, La Miranda, CA
- Retailers: La Superior, SuperMercados, La Fiesta
- Brand Name: La Fiesta
- Lots/Codes: 25033
- Lead Concentration: 2.73 ppm
Moran Foods, LLC, Saint Ann, MO
- Retailer: Save A Lot
- Brand Name: Marcum
- Best By Dates & Codes:
- 10/16/25 10DB
- 04/06/25 0400B1
- Lead Concentration: 3.20 ppm, 2.70 ppm
MTCI, Santa Fe Springs, CA
- Retailer: SF Supermarket
- Brand Name: MTCI
- Lots/Codes: MK (No codes)
- Lead Concentration: 2.99 ppm
Raja Foods LLC, Skokie, IL
- Retailer: Patel Brothers
- Brand Name: Swad
- Lots/Codes: KX21223
- Lead Concentration: 2.12 ppm
Greenbriar International, Inc., Chesapeake, VA
- Retailers: Dollar Tree, Family Dollar
- Brand Name: Supreme Tradition
- Best By Dates & Codes:
- 09/29/25 09E8
- 04/17/25 04E11
- 12/19/25 12C2
- 04/12/25 04ECB12
- 08/24/25 08A_ _
- 04/21/25 04E5 (repeated)
- 2025-09-22 09E20 (Missouri)
- Lead Concentration: Ranges from 2.03 ppm to 3.37 ppm
El Chilar, Apopka, FL & La Joya Morelense, Baltimore, MD
- Brand Name: El Chilar
- Lots/Codes:
- F275EX1026 (Maryland)
- D300EX1024 (Maryland)
- Lead Concentration: 3.40 ppm, 2.93 ppm
Please note, the FDA advises against the consumption of these products due to the health risks associated with elevated lead levels. Consumers should immediately discard any products listed above.
FDA Recommendations
Consumers are urged to immediately dispose of the ground cinnamon products identified by the FDA. The agency has advised against the purchase of these items and has reached out to manufacturers for voluntary recalls. The table below details the affected products. Notably, the MTCI brand is also on this list, but attempts to contact the company have been unsuccessful.
Health Implications of Lead Exposure
Lead exposure, especially over prolonged periods, can have detrimental health effects. In children, it can impair cognitive development, reduce IQ, and cause behavioral problems. Adults are not immune; lead exposure can lead to hypertension, renal impairment, and reproductive issues.
Action Steps for Consumers
- Check Your Pantry: Review the list of affected products and ensure none are in your kitchen.
- Safe Disposal: Follow local guidelines for the disposal of hazardous materials to discard any contaminated products safely.
- Stay Informed: Monitor updates from the FDA for any additional recalls or safety notices.
Your health and safety are paramount. By staying informed and proactive, you can navigate this advisory effectively. Always ensure your spices and other food products meet safety standards to protect your family from potential hazards.
Related Links
Who to Contact
Health care professionals, patients and consumers are encouraged to report complaints and cases of exposure and adverse events to the FDA’s MedWatch Safety Information and Adverse Event Reporting Program.
To report a complaint or adverse event (illness or serious allergic reaction), you can
