A turmeric recall by Gel Spice Inc. for high lead levels in the powder has been expanded to include additional brands, said the U.S. Food and Drug Administration.
An FDA statement said the recalled products had been distributed by retailers throughout the country and said elevated lead levels were discovered during testing and sampling of a product from same bulk turmeric.
"Lead can accumulate in the body over time," the FDA said. "Too much can cause health problems, including delayed mental and physical development and learning deficiencies. Pregnant women, infants and young children especially should avoid exposure to lead. People concerned about blood lead levels should contact their physician or health clinic to ask about testing."
The recalled brands, best before codes, and UPC codes include: Spice Select, 8 ounces, March 18, 2019 (076114007730); Market Pantry, 0.95 ounces, April 5, 2019 (085239211038); Gel, 15 ounces, April 18, 2019 and May 16, 2019 (076114800867); Clear Value, 0.75 ounce, April 27, 2019 (036800354920); Lieber's, 2 ounces, May 13, 2019 (043427006361); and Spice Supreme, 2 ounces, May 17, 2019 (076114364628).
The FDA said no illnesses have been reported in connection with the turmeric powder.
The initial recall of Fresh Find Ground Turmeric was made on July 28 after sampling by food inspectors from New York State Department of Agriculture and Markets and analysis of the product by the New York State Food Laboratory.
The New Jersey-based Gel Spice Inc. has been a family-owned importer and custom manufacturer of spices, herbs, seeds, seasonings, and baking ingredients in 1955, according to its website.
"Turmeric is a spice that's essential in South Asian Cuisine, and sometimes also used to make foods look more yellow or orange," wrote Laura Northrup, of the website Consumerist, adding that Gel Spice products are often found in Target as well as Big Lots.
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