Cinnamon Recall Update in 5 States as FDA Sets Risk Level

A recall of cinnamon powder feared to contain lead was classified as a potential public health risk, affecting consumers across five states.
Some 270 packets of Asli Cinnamon Powder, sold in 7oz clear plastic pouches, were recalled on August 29 amid fears the spice could 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 in Illinois, issued the recall. The move came amid a nationwide cinnamon recall, with the Asli product just the latest brand added to the list of brands being pulled from stores.
More From Newsweek Vault: What Is a Health Savings Account?
Lead is a toxic metal, and long-term exposure can result in brain damage and kidney dysfunction in adults. Babies and children could suffer from developmental defects and learning disorders.
On Monday, the FDA classified the Asli recall as a Class II health hazard, which means the product “may cause temporary or medically reversible adverse health consequences.” The classification is also used “where the probability of serious adverse health consequences is remote.”
There are three FDA recall classification classes in total. Class I is the most severe warning, encompassing the potential for serious health consequences or death. Class III states the affected product is not likely to cause health problems.
More From Newsweek Vault: Compare the Top Health Savings Account (HSA) Providers
No illnesses had been reported as of last month.
The brand’s recall affects consumers in five states. Asli distributed its cinnamon in stores throughout Illinois, Minnesota, Indiana, Missouri and Ohio. Shoppers who bought Asli Cinnamon Powder 7 oz are urged to return the product to the place of purchase for a full refund.
More From Newsweek Vault: Learn More About the Different Types of Savings Accounts
The recall followed a routine sampling program by the Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services, which raised fears that the finished products contained lead.
It is unclear how the contamination occurred. Newsweek reached out to Asli Fine Foods via email for comment.
The FDA said there is “no known safe level of lead exposure.” In a statement about the mass recall of various cinnamon products, a spokesperson for the agency said: “Based on FDA’s assessment, consuming these products could contribute to elevated levels of lead in the blood. Long-term exposure [months to years] to elevated levels of lead in the diet could contribute to adverse health effects, particularly for the portion of the population that may already have elevated blood lead levels from other exposures to lead.”
Other recalled brandsinclude Gutierrez, El Chilar, Marcum, SWAD, Supreme Tradition, Compania Indillor Orientale, ALB Flavor, Shahzada, Spice Class and La Frontera.