A recall has been issued for “Yu Yee, Five Spice Powder” due to contamination concerns involving high levels of lead, a hazardous heavy metal. The recall was initiated voluntarily by Summit Import Corporation on December 10 of last year and, on January 14, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) classified the risk level as “Class II.”
The FDA defines a Class II recall as one where exposure to the product could cause temporary or reversible health effects, but the risk of serious harm is low. This category of recall is less severe than a Class I recall, which is issued when a product has a high likelihood of causing serious injury or death.
Five spice powder, a staple in Chinese cuisine, typically combines a blend of spices that represents the five fundamental flavors: sweet, sour, bitter, salty, and umami. The blend usually includes star anise, cloves, cinnamon, Sichuan peppercorns, and fennel seeds, although variations might add ingredients like ginger or cardamom.
Also Read – Another popular ice cream brand files for Chapter 11 bankruptcy
The recalled products—62 cases of 1.76oz packages—were labeled with the product code “06072/WH538” and were distributed across 15 U.S. states, including Alaska, New York, Florida, and Ohio, as well as the Bahamas. The FDA stated that the spice was found to have dangerously elevated lead levels during testing.
The lead contamination is believed to have occurred during the production process, where spice grinders or other manufacturing equipment containing lead could have transferred the metal into the product.
Lead is a known toxin that poses significant health risks. In children, it can cause developmental delays, learning difficulties, and behavioral problems. Adults may experience cognitive impairment, mood disorders, and an increased risk of conditions like high blood pressure and heart disease. Long-term exposure can also lead to kidney damage. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), lead poisoning can have serious and lasting effects on the brain and nervous system.
The World Health Organization has linked lead exposure to over 1.5 million deaths globally in 2021, mostly due to cardiovascular complications.
This recall follows a similar incident last fall, in which cinnamon products were also withdrawn from shelves due to potential lead contamination.
