Asli Fine Foods, based in Woodridge, Illinois, has issued a voluntary recall of its 7 ounce Asli Cinnamon Powder due to potential lead contamination. 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 routine testing by the Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services revealed the presence of lead in the company’s cinnamon powder.
Product and distribution of the affected product has been halted.
The company and the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) are actively investigating the cause of the contamination.
Distribution
The affected product was distributed to retail stores in Illinois, Indiana, Missouri, Minnesota, and Ohio.
Product Details
- Product Name – Asli Cinnamon Powder
- Size – 7 oz (200 grams)
- Packaging – Plastic bag
- Lot Number – DDDLUS
- UPC Code – 703440150723
Consumer Action
Consumers should search their homes for the recalled cinnamon powder.
As with all food recalls, consumers should discontinue use of the product even if it looks or smells safe to consume.
Consumers may return the affected product to the point of purchase for a refund or dispose of it immediately.
Consumers with additional questions or concerns can contact the company at 630-739-1599.
Health Risks
No injuries or illnesses related to the recalled products have been reported. However, consumers who have been exposed to the recalled item, and are experiencing illness of any kind, should contact their 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.
Food Poisoning News has previously reported this year on the widespread discovery of lead in ground cinnamon from a number of brands due to elevated levels of lead:
- Colonna Brothers expanded recall of ground cinnamon products
- New York-based American Spices, LLC, Advance Food International, Inc., and ALB-USA Enterprises, Inc. each recall ground cinnamon products
- Raja Foods recall of its Swad-brand cinnamon powder
Commenting on this story, one national lead poisoning lawyer said, “This year has seen a number of recalls of cinnamon and cinnamon products because of potential lead contamination. There are no known safe levels of lead so I advise consumers to stop use of this, and any other recalled items.”
