On September 12, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) added Jiva Organics Cinnamon Powder to its ongoing public health alert due to potential lead contamination. The possibly contaminated product is packaged in a 3.5 oz resealable bag with lot code AF-CINP/822 and a ‘Best Before’ date of July 2025.
Testing revealed high levels of lead in the product. While no illnesses have been reported to date, the product is still being sold in stores and online, and no recall has yet been issued by the company. The public health alert, first announced on July 30, 2024, has since expanded to include 12 different ground cinnamon products. The FDA will continue to update the alert if additional products are found to contain elevated levels of lead or if companies voluntarily recall their products.
Organic Cinnamon Powder (3.5 oz), Jiva Organics
Image Source: Jiva Organics
Why Is This a Concern?
Ground cinnamon is a common ingredient found in a variety of cuisines from all over the world. Many families may already have it in their kitchen because it is often used in everyday foods such as baked goods, cereals, and curries. Cinnamon may even be introduced into a baby’s diet as early as six months of age—a critical stage of growth and development for our youngest consumers.
Lead is a toxic metal, and there is no safe level of exposure. When it is present in food, the risks are especially concerning for young children and pregnant people. Children absorb lead more easily, and even small amounts can affect their growth, learning, and behavior. For pregnant people, exposure to lead can increase the risk of miscarriage or premature delivery. It can also harm the developing brain, kidneys, and nervous system of the baby. The symptoms of lead exposure are not always obvious, but its effects can be permanent and may lead to lifelong health problems. Preventing exposure is key to protecting your family’s health.
What Should You Do?
- Do not serve this product to your child.
- Discard the recalled product or return it to the place of purchase for a full refund.
- Call your healthcare provider if you are concerned about potential lead exposure and ask about a blood lead level test.
- Sign up for our newsletter to stay up-to-date on lead-related recalls.
Take a quick look in your pantry and share this alert with friends, family, and neighbors! A little awareness goes a long way in keeping kids safe.
Read the full FDA Public Health Alert here.