The Recent Outbreak: Recalls and Alarming Findings
The widespread concerns about lead in cinnamon are not speculative but are grounded in alarming evidence from recent years. Following a major lead poisoning outbreak linked to contaminated cinnamon applesauce pouches in 2023, regulatory bodies and independent organizations began more aggressive testing of cinnamon products. The results were troubling. In September 2024, a Consumer Reports investigation tested 36 ground cinnamon products and found that 12 of them had lead levels high enough to warrant a recall in New York State, which has stricter regulations than the federal government. Later in 2024 and throughout 2025, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) issued multiple public health alerts and recommended voluntary recalls for an expanding list of ground cinnamon brands sold at various retailers.
Why does lead appear in cinnamon?
Lead is a persistent and naturally occurring element in our environment, but its presence in consumer food products is rarely natural and often points to a breakdown in production or regulation. Several key factors contribute to lead contamination in cinnamon:
- Environmental Absorption: Cinnamon trees can absorb lead from contaminated soil and water where they are cultivated. This can be a legacy effect of leaded gasoline and industrial pollution. This environmental absorption is a continuous source of low-level contamination.
- Intentional Adulteration: In some cases, lead-containing compounds, specifically lead chromate, are illegally added to ground spices to enhance their color and increase weight for profit. This was the suspected cause of the extremely high levels of lead found in the 2023 applesauce pouch scandal and represents a deliberate and criminal act.
- Processing and Handling: Contamination can also be introduced during processing. Equipment used to grind, transport, or package the spice might contain lead, leading to cross-contamination, especially if not properly cleaned.
Is all cinnamon contaminated?
No, not all cinnamon is contaminated with lead. The risk varies significantly based on several factors, including the form of the cinnamon (ground vs. sticks), the source of the product, and the manufacturer's quality control. Reputable brands that conduct thorough testing are far less likely to be contaminated. Consumers should be cautious of products from less-known brands, especially those sold in specialty markets with lower regulatory oversight. Whole cinnamon sticks generally have a lower risk of contamination than ground cinnamon because adulteration and cross-contamination are more likely to occur during the grinding process.
Cassia vs. Ceylon Cinnamon: Lead and Coumarin
When discussing cinnamon, it is important to distinguish between the two main types, Ceylon and Cassia. While both are subject to potential lead contamination, they differ significantly in their coumarin content, another substance that can be harmful in large doses.
| Feature | Cassia Cinnamon (Common) | Ceylon Cinnamon (True Cinnamon) |
|---|---|---|
| Origin | Indonesia, China, Vietnam | Sri Lanka, Southern India |
| Lead Risk | Some brands found to contain concerning levels of lead | Lower general risk, but still possible due to environmental factors |
| Coumarin | High coumarin content, can be toxic to the liver in large doses | Very low coumarin content |
| Appearance | Thick, hard rolls; dark reddish-brown | Thin, paper-like layers; light tan-brown |
| Flavor | Stronger, spicier, and more pungent | Milder, sweeter, more complex |
| Cost | Less expensive and widely available | More expensive and typically found in specialty stores |
For those who consume cinnamon regularly or in larger quantities, opting for certified low-lead products or Ceylon cinnamon is a safer choice due to its lower coumarin levels and potentially lower contamination risk.
How to Minimize Your Risk
To ensure the cinnamon you consume is safe, follow these practical steps:
- Stay Informed: Monitor public health alerts from regulatory bodies like the FDA. They publish lists of recalled and unsafe products.
- Choose Reputable Brands: Stick to well-known, established brands that are transparent about their food safety and testing practices. Some brands, like Burlap & Barrel, publicly state their testing for heavy metals.
- Buy Whole Sticks: When possible, buy whole cinnamon sticks and grind them yourself. This reduces the risk of contamination from the grinding and packaging processes.
- Check Testing: Look for products that have been tested by independent third parties for heavy metals. A list of lower-risk cinnamon products is often published by consumer advocacy groups following their tests.
- Vary Your Spices: Diversifying your spice intake and not relying on any single one in large quantities is a prudent strategy to minimize exposure to any potential contaminants.
Conclusion
For consumers asking, "is cinnamon has lead?" the answer is a qualified yes, some cinnamon products have unfortunately been found to contain lead due to environmental absorption, processing contamination, and even intentional fraud. However, this risk is not universal. By staying aware of recalls, choosing reputable brands, and considering whole sticks or Ceylon varieties, consumers can significantly mitigate their exposure while still enjoying this popular spice. Food safety organizations and the FDA continue to monitor the supply chain, emphasizing the need for stricter regulations and robust testing to protect the public. The recurring nature of these contamination incidents highlights that consumer vigilance remains a critical part of ensuring food safety.
