High levels of lead found in 12 cinnamon powder brands in US: Report

This is particularly concerning as just a quarter teaspoon of these cinnamon products contains more lead than the recommended daily intake.

High levels of lead were found in at least 12 cinnamon products following a recent analysis by Consumer Reports, a non-profit organisation.

Around 36 cinnamon products were tested, including blends like garam masala and five-spice powder, from various brands available in grocery stores across the US.

Their findings revealed that 12 products, including Paras, EGN, Rani Brand and more, exceeded the lead threshold of 1 part per million (ppm) set by New York, the only US state regulating heavy metals in spices.

This is particularly concerning as just a quarter teaspoon of these cinnamon products contains more lead than the recommended daily intake.

James Rogers, director of food safety research at Consumer Reports, said, "Even small amounts of lead pose a risk because, over time, it can accumulate in the body and remain there for years, seriously harming health."