Haitai, Inc., based in Cerritos, California, has announced a recall of its Haetae (HT) brand Cinnamon Powder 8 oz due to potential lead contamination. The product was distributed nationwide and sold at various supermarkets.
The recall applies to the cinnamon powder packaged in a square plastic bottle with a medium brown color and undertones of orange and red. The affected product has the UPC number 0 20914 81415 9 and a best by date of February 9, 2025.
According to Haitai, Inc., "Short term exposures to very low levels of lead may not elicit any symptoms. It is possible that increased blood lead levels may be the only apparent sign of lead exposure. Exposure to extremely high amounts of lead may result in overt and possibly severe symptoms for which an individual is likely to seek medical attention. While lead can affect nearly every bodily system, its effects depend upon the amount and duration of lead exposure and age/body weight."
The company also noted, "If a child is exposed to enough lead for a protracted period of time (e.g., weeks to months) permanent damage to the central nervous system may occur. This can result in learning disorders, developmental defects, and other long-term health problems."
For adults, "acute lead poisoning may cause a wide range of symptoms, including abdominal pain, muscle weakness, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, weight loss, and bloody or decreased urinary output. Chronic lead exposure is associated with kidney dysfunction, hypertension, and neurocognitive effects. Lead can cause serious health problems if too much is ingested, such as damage to the brain and kidneys and can interfere with the production of red blood cells that carry oxygen to all parts of your body."
No injuries or illnesses have been reported so far related to this recall. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) maintains a zero tolerance policy for lead in products intended for children aged six years or younger.
The recall began after FDA testing found elevated levels of lead in samples collected from this product. Haitai’s investigation suggests that adulterated raw material from suppliers or naturally occurring concentrations in cinnamon could be responsible.
"Lead poisoning can be diagnosed through clinical testing, and individuals who have consumed affected product should talk to their health care providers about testing," said Haitai.
Consumers are advised not to use the recalled cinnamon powder but instead return it for a full refund at the place where it was purchased. For questions regarding this recall consumers can contact Haitai at 1-323-890-0101 during business hours Monday through Friday.
"This recall is being made with the knowledge of the U.S. Food and Drug Administration," according to Haitai.
