On November 18, 2024, IHA Beverage announced a voluntary recall of its Super Cinnamon Powder 4oz due to elevated lead levels, as identified by routine testing conducted by the Arkansas Department of Health. The recall affects products distributed in California and select stores nationwide. Lead exposure poses serious health risks, especially for children and individuals with prolonged exposure. No illnesses have been reported to date. Stick around to learn what steps consumers should take!
What happened?
The FDA announced that IHA Beverage, based in Commerce, CA, issued a recall of its Super Cinnamon Powder 4oz on November 18, 2024, following routine health department sampling. The testing revealed elevated levels of lead, a toxic metal that can harm almost every system in the body.
Product details
Brand | Product | Size | UPC | Nutrition Facts | Issue |
Super Brand | Super Cinnamon Powder | 4 oz | 610232012476 | Vitamin A&C Labeling | Elevated Lead Levels |
The product is packaged in 4oz plastic bags labeled as Super Dried Cinnamon Powder. It was sold exclusively in retail stores, primarily in California, with limited distribution across the U.S.
What caused the issue?
The recall resulted from routine testing by the Arkansas Department of Health, which found elevated lead levels in the product. Lead contamination can arise during the growing, processing, or packaging stages, often due to environmental factors or improper quality control.
Health risks
Lead exposure is particularly concerning for:
- Children: Potential developmental defects, learning disorders, and long-term neurological damage.
- Adults: Risks include kidney dysfunction, hypertension, and cognitive decline.
While no illnesses have been reported, this recall highlights the importance of routine product testing and safe ingredient sourcing.
Here’s what you should do
If you’ve purchased this product, follow these steps:
- Check the Label: Look for “Super Dried Cinnamon Powder 4oz”
- Verify the UPC: 610232012476.
- Ensure the nutrition label lists Vitamin A & C.
- Dispose Safely: Discard the product or return it to the place of purchase for a full refund.
- Contact the Company:
- Call 323-724-8551 (Monday-Friday, 10 AM–4 PM PST).
Behind the brand
IHA Beverage specializes in various food and beverage products but has been in the eye of the public due to this recall. This is not the first lead-cinnamon recall this year, earlier in March 2024, the FDA issued an alert concerning certain cinnamon products due to elevated levels of lead, New York Wholesale Group also recalled its herbal products due to this issue. This previous recall shows that being attentive to these announcements can influence companies to conduct more rigorous testing of their products and avoid these types of problems. This event emphasizes the importance of working with trusted suppliers who stay ahead of safety standards.
Ensuring safe eats
This recall highlights the ongoing challenges manufacturers face in ensuring product safety and meeting consumer expectations. Contaminants like lead can harm consumer trust, public health, and brand reputation. Implementing proactive testing, stringent quality control measures and ethical sourcing practices is essential to prevent such incidents and ensure long-term confidence in the food supply chain. These efforts not only protect consumers but also strengthen the industry’s commitment to delivering safe, high-quality products. Companies should always verify ingredient origins with suppliers and ensure regular testing to stay compliant with food safety standards.
Have questions about sourcing safe, high-quality ingredients? Contact us today or explore our range of rigorously tested products. Together, we can build a safer, more reliable food supply chain!
