This week, the New York Times reported that elevated lead levels were found in one-third of cinnamon samples. If you’re worried about what might be lurking in your favorite spices- we’ve got you. Annika, Katie and the Hive team are here with our point of view.
There is a silver lining (pun not intended) to all of this heavy metal talk – regulators are taking notice and brands are taking action. In response to recent findings of lead in apple sauce and ties to cinnamon, the industry is turning its attention to lead levels in spices. While this issue isn’t new, we’re seeing some great work happening by both watch dogs and brands alike.
Spices generally are seen to have a higher risk of metal contamination - specifically lead. Heavy metals, such as lead, are naturally occurring elements in the Earth’s crust, but can also enter our soil and water from industrial byproducts. Since spices are grown in the ground - cinnamon, for example, comes from the bark of trees and must grow for 10 years before it can be harvested - they are particularly prone to absorb heavy metals such as lead. Spices are also often exposed to additional contamination during the drying or grinding process.
Finally, and most disturbingly, lead chromate has historically been added to spices to add color.
At Hive, we work closely with our makers to ensure that from their growing practices to their testing practices, they’re doing everything they can to reduce or eliminate exposure to heavy metals in their products. And while perfect is extremely hard to achieve in commodities like spices, it is not impossible (just ask Loisa! They tested near non-detect for lead). All of our spice brands must be CA Prop 65 compliant and EFSA compliant, and free from fillers or additives like lead chromate. For cinnamon - and many other spices- we recommend Burlap and Barrel, not only for their impeccable ethical sourcing and organic growing practices, but also because they test their cinnamon in an accredited testing lab and have proven to be significantly below 1ppm (the threshold set by New York State as cause for concern). That means these are safe for consumption.
To learn more about our take on heavy metals, visit our blog post here. And discover all of our spice brands here.