2 cinnamon powder products found to have too much lead, Hadapirika mineral water also recalled

The Singapore Food Agency (SFA) detected exceeding levels of lead in two cinnamon powder products and bromate in Hadapirika mineral water.

The two cinnamon powder products are Koi Fish Brand Cinnamon Powder and Gabrielle T Organic Ceylon Cinnamon Powder.

SFA has directed the respective importers to recall the products. The recall is ongoing.

Heavy metals such as lead, mercury, arsenic and cadmium are naturally present in the environment and can enter our food when the animals and plants we eat come into contact with water, soil and the seabed.

Based on levels detected, a once-off consumption of the affected products is unlikely to be of food safety concern.

But long-term intake of high levels of lead are associated with effects on multiple organs, including kidney and liver, and systems, including the cardiovascular, haematological, immune, reproductive and nervous systems.

Similarly, the consumption of excessive levels of bromate in food or drinks for a prolonged period of time could result in an increased risk of cancer.

Consumers who have purchased the implicated products are advised not to consume it.

Those who have consumed the implicated products and have concerns about their health should seek medical advice.

Consumers may contact their point of purchase for enquiries.