Warning Issued by State Health Department Regarding Badia Spice Products

New York State has issued a health alert regarding two Badia Spices products that were found to have elevated levels of lead. The Department of Agriculture and Markets Commissioner, Richard A. Ball, announced that an analysis by the New York State Food Laboratory revealed that both Badia ground ginger and Badia ground cinnamon tested at 1-part per million action level for lead in spices.

The Badia ground ginger is sold in 1.5-ounce clear plastic bottles with black plastic caps, with UPC Code #033844002237 and Lot # 307922. The Badia ground cinnamon is sold in 2-ounce clear plastic bottles with black plastic caps, with UPC Code #033844000158 and Lot #’s 305481 and 309528. Both products were sold at various retailers within New York State and manufactured by Badia Spices Inc. in Doral, Florida.

The Department of Agriculture and Markets stated that exposure to lead can cause health issues, especially in infants, small children, pregnant women, and individuals with underlying kidney disorders. Prolonged exposure to lead in children or pregnant women can lead to permanent damage to the central nervous system, learning disorders, developmental defects, and other long-term health problems. As of now, no illnesses related to these products have been reported.

Consumers who have purchased these products are advised not to consume them and to discard them immediately. If anyone is concerned about potential illness or injury related to these products, they should contact a healthcare provider promptly. Maureen Mullarkey, a breaking news reporter at Newsday and former reporter for Patch, covered various Long Island stories, including the Diocese of Rockville Centre bankruptcy and Babylon School District abuse scandals.