FDA Recalls 6 Brands of Lead-Contaminated Ground Cinnamon; Hundreds Sickened by Tainted Applesauce
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FDA has identified 6 brands of ground cinnamon with concerning levels of lead contamination and is advising recalls. Brands include La Fiesta, Marcum, MTCI, Swad, Supreme Tradition, and El Chillar.
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Over 460 cases of lead poisoning have been tied to recalled cinnamon-flavored applesauce pouches, many in children. Cases still under investigation.
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FDA testing found lead levels in ground cinnamon ranged from 2 to 3.4 ppm, far lower than cinnamon applesauce pouches (2,300 to 5,100 ppm).
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Prolonged exposure to contaminated cinnamon may be unsafe. Consumers advised to stop using identified brands and throw them away.
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Most people have no immediate symptoms from lead exposure. Those potentially exposed should talk to a healthcare provider.