A Closer Look at the 2021 Consumer Reports Investigation
In November 2021, Consumer Reports tested 126 spice products from various brands. The study found that approximately one-third of these products contained combined levels of arsenic, lead, and cadmium that could pose health risks with regular consumption, particularly for children.
McCormick products were among those tested and identified as having significant heavy metal levels in specific products such as Culinary Ground Basil, Ground Ginger, Ground Oregano, Paprika, Ground Thyme, and Ground Turmeric. The report also noted that certain spices, like oregano and thyme, regardless of brand, were more likely to have concerning levels of heavy metals. This issue is often linked to environmental contamination where spices are grown and harvested.
The Class Action Lawsuit and McCormick's Response
Following the Consumer Reports findings, a class action lawsuit was filed against McCormick & Company in January 2022. The lawsuit alleged that McCormick sold certain products with elevated heavy metals and failed to inform consumers, referencing the Consumer Reports study. The suit claimed McCormick did not adequately test for or remove these metals, despite industry capabilities.
McCormick has faced ongoing legal challenges but has publicly affirmed its commitment to quality and safety, stating that its products undergo heavy metal testing in manufacturing plants and are safe for consumption.
Why Heavy Metals End Up in Spices
Heavy metals are naturally present in the environment and can contaminate spices through:
- Soil and water: Plants absorb metals from contaminated soil and water, often due to industrial pollution, pesticides, and fertilizers.
- Processing: Contamination can also occur during manufacturing from equipment or packaging.
- Global Sourcing: Spices are often grown in regions with varying environmental standards.
What Consumers Can Do to Minimize Risk
To reduce potential exposure to heavy metals in spices, consumers can:
- Vary Brands: No single brand was consistently safest; using different brands can help.
- Choose Lower-Risk Spices: Some spices like black pepper and garlic powder generally tested lower in the Consumer Reports study.
- Grow Your Own: Cultivating your own herbs provides direct control over sourcing.
- Monitor Recalls: Stay aware of food recalls related to heavy metals, such as those involving cinnamon.
Comparison of Consumer Reports Findings (Selected Spices)
This table summarizes Consumer Reports' 2021 findings for selected spices, showing variation across brands.
| Spice | Brands with No Concern (Examples) | Brands with High Concern (Examples) | Overall Risk Factor |
|---|---|---|---|
| Oregano | Some brands | McCormick, La Flor, Trader Joe's | Generally high across brands |
| Thyme | Some brands | McCormick, Great Value (Walmart) | Generally high across brands |
| Paprika | Simply Organic, Spice Islands | McCormick | Variable |
| Ginger | Simply Organic, Great Value (Walmart) | McCormick | Variable |
| Turmeric | Simply Organic, Spice Islands | McCormick, Badia | Variable |
| Black Pepper | McCormick, Simply Organic, Trader Joe's | None consistently high | Generally low across brands |
| Garlic Powder | McCormick, Great Value (Walmart) | None consistently high | Generally low across brands |
Conclusion: Navigating the Spice Aisle with Awareness
Independent studies and legal actions have raised concerns about heavy metals in products, including McCormick spices. While companies state they test for contaminants, environmental factors make complete elimination difficult. The issue is widespread in the spice industry, with some spices showing consistently higher levels of heavy metals regardless of brand. Consumers can make informed choices by consulting reports, using various brands, and even growing their own herbs. Staying informed is key to ensuring the safety of pantry items. The FDA is under pressure to set stricter federal limits for heavy metals in spices, which would offer more clarity on safety standards.
List of Factors Influencing Spice Contamination
- Geographic sourcing of raw ingredients
- Farming and agricultural practices
- Contamination of soil and water in growing regions
- Industrial pollution near farms
- Manufacturing and processing equipment standards
- Regulatory oversight in various countries
List of Actions for Consumers
- Consult independent testing organizations like Consumer Reports
- Diversify your spice brands to avoid over-reliance
- Prioritize spices found to have lower heavy metal levels
- Grow a home herb garden for common herbs
- Research specific brands and their sourcing methods
- Dispose of recalled products promptly
External Resource
- {Link: Consumer Reports https://www.consumerreports.org/health/food-safety/your-herbs-and-spices-might-contain-arsenic-cadmium-and-lead-a6246621494/}
List of Spices Cited in the Controversy
- Ground Basil
- Ground Ginger
- Ground Oregano
- Paprika
- Ground Thyme
- Ground Turmeric
Industry and Regulatory Context
The American Spice Trade Association (ASTA) acknowledges the difficulty in removing all heavy metals from spices and provides guidance. However, unlike other foods, the U.S. FDA has not established mandatory federal limits for heavy metals in most dry herbs and spices. This largely leaves monitoring to the companies themselves, although states like New York have implemented their own stricter limits. The lack of comprehensive federal regulation is a key aspect of the heavy metal issue in spices.
