Lead Found in Cinnamon Products: What You Should Know

A recent study by Consumer Reports released on 9.12.2024 tested 36 cinnamon powders and spice blends, revealing that some contain dangerous levels of lead. Brands like Paras and EGN had the highest lead levels, reaching over 3 ppm, which is more than three times the safe limit. On the other hand, brands like 365 Whole Foods Market and Sadaf were found to be the safest, with minimal or undetectable lead levels.

Don't Use (High Lead Levels):

1. Paras: 3.52 ppm
2. EGN: 2.91 ppm
3. Mimi's Products: 2.03 ppm
4. Bowl & Basket: 1.82 ppm
5. Rani Brand: 1.39 ppm
6. Zara Foods: 1.27 ppm
7. Three Rivers: 1.26 ppm
8. Yu Yee Brand: 1.25 ppm
9. BaiLiFeng: 1.15 ppm
10. Spicy King: 1.05 ppm
11. Badia: 1.03 ppm
12. Deep: 1.02 ppm

Okay to Use:

1. Happy Belly: 0.87 ppm
2. Kirkland Signature: 0.80 ppm
3. Great Value: 0.79 ppm
4. Penzeys Ceylon Cinnamon: 0.78 ppm
5. Ziyad Brand: 0.73 ppm
6. Trader Joe’s: 0.69 ppm
7. The Spice Lab: 0.60 ppm
8. Good & Gather: 0.56 ppm
9. Morton & Bassett: 0.55 ppm
10. Penzeys Vietnamese Cinnamon: 0.55 ppm
11. Swad: 0.40 ppm
12. Penzeys Ground Cinnamon: 0.37 ppm
13. Simply Organic: 0.28 ppm
14. McCormick: 0.23 ppm

Best to Use (Very Low Lead Levels):

1. Sadaf: 0.15 ppm
2. 365 Whole Foods: 0.12 ppm
3. Loisa: 0.04 ppm
4. Morton & Bassett Organic: 0.04 ppm
5. 365 Whole Foods Organic: 0.02 ppm

Health Risks of Lead Exposure:

Lead is highly toxic, especially for children. Even small amounts can accumulate over time, leading to serious health issues such as cognitive impairment, developmental delays, and behavioral problems. For adults, chronic lead exposure can increase the risk of hypertension, kidney damage, and reproductive issues.

To reduce the risk of lead exposure, always check for updated test results and choose safer, well-tested products from reputable brands.

For the full report and a complete list of tested cinnamon products, visit Consumer Reports.