Ever sprinkled cinnamon on your oatmeal and thought, this is the safest spice in the pantry? Well, the latest FDA cinnamon recall is here to remind us that even everyday favorites can carry hidden risks. With 16 brands now flagged for elevated lead levels, it’s worth taking a closer look at what’s happening—and what you should do if you’ve got one of these jars sitting on your shelf.
Why the FDA Issued a Cinnamon Recall
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) recently expanded its recall to include 16 brands of ground cinnamon after tests revealed elevated levels of lead. Prolonged exposure to lead can be harmful, especially for children, and the FDA is urging consumers to check their spice racks.
Here’s the quick breakdown:
The recall began in 2024 after lead-tainted cinnamon was linked to contaminated applesauce pouches.
As of October 2025, the list has grown to include brands like HAETAE, Roshni, Durra, and Wise Wife.
Ten of the 16 companies have already issued voluntary recalls, while others are under FDA pressure to follow suit.
The FDA’s advice is simple: if you own any of the listed products, throw them away immediately.
How Did Lead End Up in Cinnamon?
It’s not as mysterious as it sounds. Lead contamination in spices can happen for a few reasons:
Soil and water exposure – Cinnamon trees can absorb heavy metals from polluted environments.
Processing and handling – Poor quality control during grinding and packaging can introduce contaminants.
Intentional adulteration – In rare cases, cheaper additives are mixed in to increase weight or color, which can introduce toxins.
Did You Know?
Cinnamon has been prized for thousands of years. Ancient Egyptians used it in embalming, Romans considered it more valuable than silver, and in medieval Europe, it was a status symbol on the dining table. Today, it’s still one of the most traded spices worldwide—proof that its warm, sweet aroma has always been irresistible.
Common Questions About the Cinnamon Recall
Q: Is all cinnamon unsafe right now?
No. Only specific brands and lot numbers are affected. Most cinnamon on the market remains safe to use.
Q: Can cooking or baking remove the lead?
Unfortunately, no. Lead contamination doesn’t “cook out.” If your cinnamon is on the FDA’s list, it’s best to discard it.
Q: What should I do if I’ve already consumed recalled cinnamon?
Occasional exposure is less concerning, but prolonged use could be harmful. If you’re worried, especially for children, consult a healthcare provider.
A Closer Look at Cinnamon’s Global Role
Cinnamon isn’t just a spice—it’s a cultural connector.
In the U.S., it’s tied to comfort foods like apple pie and cinnamon rolls.
In Mexico, canela tea is a household staple.
In South Asia, cinnamon is a key ingredient in curries and spice blends.
In the Middle East, it flavors savory dishes as often as sweets.
This global love affair with cinnamon makes the recall especially significant—it’s not just about one spice jar, but about a shared culinary tradition.
My Take
I’ll admit, I checked my own spice rack the moment I read the FDA’s update. Cinnamon is one of those “invisible” ingredients I use without thinking—on toast, in coffee, even in chili. The idea that something so ordinary could carry a hidden risk is unsettling, but it’s also a reminder of why food safety alerts matter. Better to toss a jar than risk long-term health issues.
Staying Safe Moving Forward
The cinnamon recall FDA alert is a wake-up call for all of us to pay closer attention to what’s in our kitchens. Check your labels, follow the recall list, and when in doubt, replace your spices with trusted brands. Cinnamon will always be a beloved flavor, but right now, a little caution goes a long way.
Would you toss your cinnamon without hesitation, or would you double-check before letting it go? Share your thoughts—I’d love to hear how you’re handling this recall.