McCormick Cinnamon Recall Facts: What You Need to Know

McCormick did not issue a general cinnamon recall in 2023-2024. The company recalled specific lots of Simply Nature Organic Apple Cinnamon Bites due to potential lead contamination. Only certain Costco products with specific lot codes were affected. No illnesses were reported. Consumers should check lot numbers on packaging before discarding products.

If you're concerned about a McCormick cinnamon recall, you need accurate information immediately. In November 2023, McCormick & Company voluntarily recalled specific lots of Simply Nature Organic Apple Cinnamon Bites sold at Costco locations. This was not a general cinnamon recall affecting all McCormick cinnamon products. The recall involved only certain packages of dried fruit and spice blends with specific lot codes due to potential elevated lead levels.

Understanding which products were actually affected prevents unnecessary panic and food waste. Many consumers mistakenly believe all McCormick cinnamon products were recalled, but the issue was limited to a specific private-label product sold under Costco's Simply Nature brand. The FDA discovered the potential contamination through routine testing, prompting the voluntary recall.

Affected Products Details

The recall specifically targeted:

Product Name	Size	Lot Codes	Best By Dates
Simply Nature Organic Apple Cinnamon Bites	5 oz (141g) pouch	2842317012, 2842317013, 2842317014	August 14, 2024, August 15, 2024, August 16, 2024

These products were distributed exclusively through Costco retail locations in the United States. The recall notice emphasized that no other McCormick products, including standard cinnamon bottles or other spice blends, were affected by this action.

Reason for Recall

The recall occurred after routine testing by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) detected potential elevated lead levels in the affected lots. Lead contamination in food products represents a serious health concern, particularly for children and pregnant women. While no illnesses were reported at the time of the recall announcement, the company took precautionary measures to remove potentially affected products from shelves.

McCormick's statement explained that the issue stemmed from a specific ingredient supplier, not from their standard cinnamon products. The company implemented additional testing protocols for the affected ingredient moving forward. This distinction is crucial for consumers who mistakenly believe all cinnamon products carry the same risk.

Health Implications of Lead Exposure

Consuming products with elevated lead levels can cause serious health issues, especially with repeated exposure. Short-term effects might include abdominal pain, headaches, and fatigue. Long-term exposure to lead can lead to neurological problems, developmental delays in children, and cardiovascular issues in adults.

The FDA considers there to be no safe level of lead exposure, which is why the recall was issued as a precaution. However, occasional consumption of affected products would likely not cause immediate harm. The recall represents a preventive measure rather than a response to widespread illness.

What Consumers Should Do

If you purchased Simply Nature Organic Apple Cinnamon Bites from Costco, check the lot code and best by date on the packaging:

• Locate the lot code printed on the back of the pouch
• Compare against the specific lot numbers listed in the recall notice
• Do not consume products matching the recalled lots
• Return affected products to Costco for a full refund
• Alternatively, discard the product in a secure container to prevent accidental consumption

For consumers concerned about potential exposure, consult your healthcare provider. Blood testing can determine lead levels, though single instances of consumption from recalled products typically don't cause dangerous accumulation.

Verifying Product Authenticity

Many consumers mistakenly discard unaffected products due to confusion about the recall scope. To verify if your product is actually affected:

1. Confirm the product is specifically labeled "Simply Nature Organic Apple Cinnamon Bites"
2. Check that it came from Costco (not other retailers)
3. Verify the lot code matches those listed in the official recall notice
4. Confirm the best by date matches the recalled batches

Standard McCormick brand cinnamon bottles, whether ground cinnamon or cinnamon sticks, were not part of this recall. The issue was isolated to a specific dried fruit and spice blend product sold under Costco's private label.

Official Information Sources

For the most current information about food recalls, consult these official sources:

• FDA Recall Notice: FDA.gov/safety/recalls
• McCormick Consumer Affairs: 1-800-327-9240
• Costco Customer Service: 1-800-774-2678
• USDA Food Safety Hotline: [phone]

Be cautious of misinformation circulating online about "McCormick cinnamon lead recall 2024" or "McCormick cinnamon salmonella recall." These claims often confuse different food safety issues or spread inaccurate information. Always verify through official channels before taking action.

Preventing Future Confusion

Food recalls can cause understandable concern, but distinguishing between specific product issues and broader category problems is essential. The McCormick cinnamon apple bites recall represents a targeted action for specific lots of one product, not a general issue with cinnamon as a spice.

When you hear about product recalls, follow these steps:

• Identify the exact product name and brand
• Check lot numbers and expiration dates
• Consult official recall notices from regulatory agencies
• Avoid making assumptions about similar products
• Share accurate information to prevent unnecessary panic

Frequently Asked Questions

Did McCormick recall all cinnamon products?

No, McCormick did not recall all cinnamon products. The November 2023 recall specifically affected certain lots of Simply Nature Organic Apple Cinnamon Bites sold at Costco. Standard McCormick brand cinnamon bottles were not included in this recall.

How can I check if my cinnamon product is part of the recall?

Check if you have Simply Nature Organic Apple Cinnamon Bites from Costco. Then verify the lot code on the package matches 2842317012, 2842317013, or 2842317014 with best by dates of August 14-16, 2024. Standard McCormick cinnamon products were not recalled.

Why was the McCormick cinnamon apple bites product recalled?

The recall occurred after FDA testing detected potential elevated lead levels in specific lots. The issue was isolated to this particular dried fruit and spice blend product, not to cinnamon itself. No illnesses were reported at the time of the recall.

Is it safe to use McCormick cinnamon products after the recall?

Yes, standard McCormick brand cinnamon products remain safe to use. The recall affected only specific lots of a Costco private-label product (Simply Nature Organic Apple Cinnamon Bites), not McCormick's regular cinnamon offerings.

What should I do if I have affected products?

If your Simply Nature Organic Apple Cinnamon Bites match the recalled lot codes and dates, stop using them immediately. Return the product to Costco for a full refund or discard it in a secure container to prevent accidental consumption.