The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has issued an urgent recall of Wise Wife brand cinnamon sold by New York-based SLR Food Distribution after tests revealed dangerously high levels of lead, a toxic heavy metal linked to serious health issues including cancer, reproductive problems, and developmental disorders. The recall, announced on September 30, 2025, involves 1.76-ounce clear plastic jars with black lids, identifiable by the UPC code 0 688474 302853 printed on the back label. The products were distributed to retailers in New Jersey, New York, Florida, Maryland, Minnesota, Oklahoma, and Ohio between February 15, 2024, and June 28, 2025. No illnesses have been reported, but the FDA is urging consumers to return the product for a full refund due to the significant health risks posed by lead exposure.
Health Risks of Lead Exposure
Lead is a hazardous substance with no safe consumption level, according to the FDA and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Even small amounts can cause immediate symptoms such as abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, and fatigue. Prolonged exposure, particularly in children, can lead to permanent damage to the central nervous system, resulting in learning disorders, developmental defects, and behavioral issues. In adults, chronic exposure is associated with kidney dysfunction, hypertension, and neurocognitive impairments. The International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) classifies lead as a probable carcinogen, raising concerns about its potential to cause cancer with high or repeated exposure. A 2024 Consumer Reports investigation found that at least a dozen cinnamon products contained lead, some at levels where just a quarter teaspoon could cause lead poisoning in children.
The recall comes at a particularly critical time, as recent research has highlighted cinnamon’s potential to reduce inflammation in the brain and protect against dementia by preventing the buildup of toxic plaques. This health benefit, however, is overshadowed by the risks of contamination, prompting the FDA to act swiftly to remove the affected products from circulation.
Possible Sources of Contamination
The exact source of lead in the recalled cinnamon remains unclear, but experts have proposed several theories. Lead is naturally present in the Earth’s crust and may contaminate soil where spices like cinnamon are grown. Additionally, the FDA has previously suggested that heavy metals might be intentionally added to spices to increase their weight, allowing them to be sold at a higher price, or to enhance their color for a more appealing appearance to consumers. These practices, while rare, underscore the need for rigorous testing and oversight in the spice industry to ensure consumer safety.
Consumer Actions and Broader Implications
The FDA advises consumers who have purchased the recalled Wise Wife cinnamon to immediately stop using it and return it to the place of purchase for a full refund. The agency emphasized the importance of protecting vulnerable populations, particularly children, from the long-term effects of lead exposure. This recall follows a broader trend of concern about heavy metal contamination in spices, as evidenced by the 2024 Consumer Reports findings. Public health advocates, including figures like Robert F. Kennedy Jr., have pointed to environmental contaminants like lead as potential contributors to rising rates of developmental disorders such as autism in the U.S.
As the FDA continues to monitor and test spice products, this recall serves as a reminder of the importance of vigilance in food safety. Consumers are encouraged to check their pantries for the affected product and stay informed about ongoing recalls to protect their health.
