FDA Recall: Gel Spice, Inc. Expand Recall of All Brands; Increased Lead Levels in Turmeric Spice Found
Turmeric products from a number of brands has been recalled due to increased lead levels;
Gel Spice, Inc. manufacturer of a variety of spices has announced that it is expanding its recall of its ground turmeric powder product. The recall will now include its additional brands because of increased lead levels in the spice.
Lead is toxic and it could accumulate in the body in a matter of time. Increased lead levels in the body can lead to health concerns such as delayed mental development, poor physical development and reduced ability to learn.
Lead is especially toxic for infants, young children and pregnant women. These people should avoid lead exposure at all cost. Those that are concerned about lead exposure through increased intake of products with turmeric should contact their physician to have their blood levels checked for lead levels.
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Other recalled products
The following are included in the recall:
Brand/Description | Lot/BB Code | UPC Number |
Spice Select in 8oz containers | 03/18/19 | 076114007730 |
Market Pantry 0.95 oz | 04/5/19 | 085239211038 |
Gel in 15 oz | 04/18/19 | 076114800867 |
Gel in 15 oz | 05/16/19 | 076114800867 |
Clear Value in 0.75 oz | 04/27/19 | 036800354920 |
Lieber's in 2 oz | 05/13/19 | 043427006361 |
Spice Supreme in 2 oz | 05/17/19 | 076114364628 |
Recalled turmeric products now across the U.S.
The recalled turmeric products were distributed by a number of retailers and may now be across the United States. The increased levels of lead were identified when sampling and testing of another product made from the same turmeric batch.
As of the moment, there were no illnesses that have been reported in connection with using the products. Customers that have brought the listed ground turmeric products should discontinue using the product at once. Customers with questions about the recalled products may call hotline numbers (201) 564 – 0435 from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. ET.
Gel Spice, Inc. is one of the most popular importer and manufacturer of spices, seeds, bakery ingredients and specialty items. The company serves schools, food service distributors, health care facilities and restaurants. Gel Spice has a wide variety of cultural seasonings, salt-free products and so on.
The uses of turmeric
Turmeric comes from the turmeric plant and is a spice that is very common in Asian cuisines. Turmeric is the main ingredient for making curry and has a bitter taste. It is also an ingredient in making mustard, butter and cheeses. Turmeric is also widely used for its medicinal benefits. It is said to be useful for the treatment of headaches, cold, bronchitis, ulcerative colitis and joint pain to name a few.
