CONSUMER ALERT: Popular Louisiana Spices Contaminated With Unsafe Levels Of Lead

A consumer alert has been issued for two commonly purchased spices in Louisiana and nationwide. Chances are, every spice cabinet in Louisiana has one or both of these spices that should be tossed out just to be safe.

According to dailymail.com, New York State Department of Agriculture and Markets Commissioner Richard A. Ball issued an urgent advisory regarding Badia Spices, which are found in grocery stores nationwide.

Officials found unsafe levels of lead in Badia Cinnamon and ginger. They recommend that consumers check their spice cupboards for these spices and toss them out immediately.

Contaminated Batches

Check for a 2-ounce clear plastic bottle with black caps. The contaminated batches have a UPC Code that reads #033844000158 or Lot Numbers 305481 and 309528.

While no injuries or illnesses have been reported yet, exposure to high amounts of lead can have serious side effects.

Exposure to Lead

Children, infants, and pregnant women are more susceptible to having a severe reaction if they consume lead on a consistent basis.

Young children are more at risk because their nervous systems are still developing and have high absorption rates.

Pregnant women are also at risk of the consumption of lead, affecting the development of the fetus.

Health Concerns and Side Effects

This advisory should be taken seriously by consumers because while there are short term health concerns there are long term effects as well.

• Abdominal pain and digestive issues
• increased risk of heart disease
• infertility in men and women
• developmental issues
• bone and joint pain
• persistent fatigue and poor appetite
• High blood pressure
• Kidney Disease

At this time, there have not been any reports of consumers having any of these side effects; however, to avoid consuming high amounts of lead that could be detrimental to your health, toss these out as soon as possible.