Metal contaminants and allergen labelling

Metal contaminants

In the US, El Chilar Rodriguez is recalling 127 cases of its El Chilar Ground Cinnamon “Canela Molida” as it may contain traces of lead.

The recalled product was distributed by La Raza LLC, 8795 D’Arcy Rd, Forestville, MD 20747, which distributes to brick-and-mortar retail stores in Maryland.

Consumers can identify the recalled product with the LOT codes D300 EX1024 and F272 EX1026.

The company has claimed that, to date, “no illnesses have been reported”

Following the Maryland Department of Health collecting product samples, analysis revealed that the product had “elevated concentrations of lead”.

“Subsequent investigation indicates the problem might be caused by potentially adulterated raw material from the supplier,” said El Chilar Rodriguez via the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) website.

Advice to consumers states that those that have purchased the recalled El Chilar Ground Cinnamon “Canela Molida” should stop using the product immediately and to return it to the place of purchase for a full refund.

In addition the company has said that “parents and caregivers of toddlers and young children who may have been exposed to lead should contact their health care provider to report their symptoms and receive care”.

Allergen labelling

Meanwhile, in the UK, Italian Beverage Company has announced that it is recalling Simply Cookies and Cream Frappe Powder as the packaging has a gluten-free symbol although the product contains wheat (gluten).

The product comes in a pack size of 1.75kg and has the batch codes 102025 and 112025. The best before dates to look out for are 31 October 2025 and 30 November 2025.

FSA urges vegan label caution for those with food allergies

The Italian Beverage Company has now contacted relevant allergy support organisations, which will inform their members about the recall. In addition to this, the company has issued a recall notice to its customers why the product is being recalled.

Those that have purchased the product and have coeliac disease, and/or an allergy or intolerance to wheat or gluten, have been advised not to eat it. Consumers have instead been advised to return it to the company or purchase for a full refund. A receipt is not required for this refund.