A recall first initiated on December 10, 2024 by Summit Import Corporation, based in Jersey City, New Jersey, for Yu Yee Five Spice Powder due to contamination with elevated levels of lead remains ongoing. Lead is a neurotoxin that can affect nearly every system in the human body and is especially dangerous for young children.
Background
The recall was initiated after product testing revealed elevated levels of lead.
This recall is classified as a Class II recall, meaning that exposure to the recalled product has a lower chance of causing major injuries or death yet may still cause temporary or adverse health consequences.
No press release was issued by the company for this recall.
Distribution
The product was distributed to New York, Virginia, Connecticut, Florida, Ohio, South Carolina, Alaska, Massachusetts, New Jersey, Georgia, Minnesota, Iowa, Pennsylvania, Maryland, and the Bahamas.
Product Details
- Product – Yu Yee Five Spice Powder
- Size – 1.76 oz
- Code – 06072/WH538
- Quantity Recalled – 62 cases
Consumer Action
Consumers are advised to check their homes for the recalled items.
As with all food recalls, consumers are strongly advised to discontinue use of the affected product even if it looks or smells safe to eat.
Anyone in possession of the recalled products is requested to not sell, serve, or distribute them.
The company has not said if the product can be returned to the place of purchase for a refund. It is recommended that consumers call the store from where the recalled product was purchased or simply throw it away.
Health Risks
The company has not said if there have been any reports of injuries in connection with consumption of the recalled product. Anyone who has been exposed to the product, and is experiencing illness or adverse reactions, should contact a medical provider immediately.
Elevation in lead can lead directly to decreased cognitive function, reduced IQ, difficulty in problem solving, reduced or stunted brain development or reduced neuroplasticity. Children are particularly vulnerable because their bodies absorb lead more readily than adults. As a result, elevations in anger, drug use, and even violent crime have been identified in those who suffer lead poisoning during formative years.
Yu Yee Five Spice Powder was previously mentioned in a Food Poisoning News article that covered a recent study by watchdog Consumer Reports who found elevated levels of lead in certain cinnamon brands. The product was among eleven others that Consumer Reports strongly suggested consumers not use due to potential health risks.
Commenting on this article, the nation’s leading lead poisoning lawyer said, “There have been many recalls of cinnamon and cinnamon-based products in the last couple of years. Lead exposure is particularly dangerous for young children and pregnant women. Any consumers with the recalled product should dispose of it immediately.”
