Spice brands without heavy metals

Author: c | 2025-04-24

Spice brands without heavy metals. In the Consumer Reports test of the 126 spices for heavy metals, all of the products tested made by McCormick, Spice Islands, Simply Organic

Spice Brands Without Heavy Metals Could Help End

Shoppers must remain vigilant and proactive in researching their options.How to Protect Your Family From Heavy Metals in SpicesSource: ShutterstockProtecting your family doesn’t mean giving up flavorful meals, but it does require a more mindful approach to spice use. Start by choosing spices known for lower contamination levels, such as garlic powder or coriander, and avoid those flagged as high-risk, like thyme and oregano. Growing your own herbs is another effective way to control contamination, especially for heavy metal-prone varieties. Consider investing in a small herb garden to ensure a steady supply of safe, fresh seasonings. If buying spices, prioritize brands that have demonstrated a commitment to safety through independent testing. Diversifying your spice use can also reduce overexposure to any single product. Pair these strategies with broader efforts, like testing your water for contaminants, to minimize overall heavy metal intake. By making informed decisions, you can continue to enjoy the flavors you love without compromising your health.Taking Action for Safer SpicesSource: ShutterstockConsumers can play a vital role in driving change by demanding greater accountability from spice manufacturers. Supporting petitions and advocacy efforts for stricter FDA regulations can help protect public health. Additionally, educating friends and family about the risks of heavy metals in spices can create a ripple effect of awareness. Manufacturers may be more inclined to implement stricter testing if they see a shift in consumer preferences toward safer products. Choosing transparent and ethical brands sends a strong message about the importance of food safety. While the current lack of regulation leaves much to be desired, collective action can pave the way for meaningful reform. Together, consumers, industry leaders, and regulatory agencies can ensure that spices remain a source of flavor and joy, not a hidden health hazard. Spices are often added to dishes to give them pizzazz, but a new report has revealed that herbs and spices from some major brands contain heavy metals that can cause health issues.The American nonprofit Consumer Reports (CR) first disclosed this in November 2021, after it tested 126 individual spice products. Spices from Walmart's Great Value, 365 by Whole Foods Market, La Flor Spices, McCormick & Co., Penzeys Spices and Spice Islands were among those tested.Forty products – roughly one-third of the total tested – had high enough levels of heavy metals such as arsenic, lead and cadmium "to pose a health concern for children when regularly consumed in typical serving sizes." CR also noted that thyme and oregano products it tested had "concerning" levels of heavy metals.According to experts at the nonprofit consumer group, 31 products tested had levels of lead so high that they exceeded the maximum amount anyone should have in a day. CR Director of Food Safety and Testing James E. Rogers remarked that even if some of these products are used in cooking, they raise serious heavy metal concerns when used regularly in the kitchen. (Related: Turmeric spices found heavily contaminated with toxic LEAD... FDA forces nationwide recalls for multiple brands (see list here.))"When people think about heavy metals in their diet – if they do at all – it's probably the lead in their drinking water or arsenic in their children's fruit juices or cereals," he said. "But our tests show that dried herbs and

Heavy Metals Found In 20Popular Spice Brands:

Trips may pose even greater risks, as their production may lack the stricter standards found in the U.S. Imported spices, while often more affordable, are frequently grown in regions with higher contamination risks due to industrial or agricultural practices. The assumption that “organic” or “premium” equals safety can mislead consumers into making less informed choices. Understanding the limitations of these labels is crucial for reducing exposure. Buyers should prioritize brands with transparent sourcing and manufacturing practices. Educating yourself on the origins and testing protocols of the spices you buy is a practical step toward safer consumption. This awareness can empower consumers to make better decisions without relying on misleading labels.Testing and Regulation ChallengesSource: ShutterstockThe responsibility of regulating heavy metals in food, including spices, falls under the FDA, but significant gaps remain in enforcement. Unlike bacteria contamination, which is closely monitored, heavy metals often fly under the radar. The FDA has not established specific limits for heavy metals in most foods, leaving companies with broad discretion. In states like New York, stricter regulations for herbs and spices have been enacted, but these efforts are not yet widespread. This regulatory gap creates inconsistencies in safety standards, putting consumers at risk. Limited testing also allows contaminated products to slip through the cracks, especially when spices are sourced from multiple countries. Consumer Reports emphasizes the need for stricter oversight to address this growing issue. Until stronger regulations are in place, consumers must rely on independent testing and brand transparency to guide their purchases. Greater accountability within the industry could help bridge these regulatory gaps.What Spice Companies Are Doing About ItSource: ShutterstockSome spice companies are taking steps to reduce contamination, but these efforts vary widely and lack uniformity. Brands like McCormick, Bolner’s Fiesta, and Costco have implemented testing programs, but not all companies share their methods or thresholds. McCormick, for instance, aims to minimize contamination levels as much as possible but does not disclose its acceptable limits. This lack of transparency makes it difficult for consumers to gauge which products are truly safe. The inconsistency in corporate responses highlights the need for industry-wide standards. California has long required warning labels for products that exceed heavy metal limits, but few states follow suit. New York’s recent heavy metal limits for spices represent progress but remain an outlier. As consumers demand safer products, companies may face increasing pressure to implement stricter testing and share results. Until then,. Spice brands without heavy metals. In the Consumer Reports test of the 126 spices for heavy metals, all of the products tested made by McCormick, Spice Islands, Simply Organic Spice brands without heavy metals. In the Consumer Reports test of the 126 spices for heavy metals, all of the products tested made by McCormick, Spice Islands, Simply Organic, Great Value (Walmart s store brand) and Morton Bassett had the lowest levels of heavy metals, falling into the study s no concern or some concern

Which spices brand tests for heavy metals? :

Spices and herbs are the heart of many delicious dishes, enhancing flavors and adding character to meals. Yet, recent investigations have revealed a hidden danger lurking in many spice racks: heavy metals like lead, arsenic, and cadmium. These metals can sneak into your diet through frequently used seasonings, potentially posing health risks over time. This alarming discovery affects not only spice lovers but also families trying to make healthy choices in their cooking. For many, spices represent tradition and flavor, but it’s critical to look beyond taste and consider their potential impact on health. With growing evidence of contamination, consumers must stay informed about which spices are safer and which could be hazardous. This issue transcends brands, organic certifications, and even country of origin, making it vital to examine all options carefully. Let’s dive into the details to understand the risks and learn how to season safely.The Extent of Heavy Metal Contamination in SpicesSource: ShutterstockA Consumer Reports study tested 126 spice products from widely known brands like McCormick, Trader Joe’s, and Whole Foods, and the results were startling. Nearly one-third of these products contained heavy metal levels high enough to trigger health concerns, particularly in children. Thyme and oregano stood out as the worst offenders, with every product tested surpassing safety thresholds. Shockingly, even products labeled “organic” or “packed in the USA” showed no consistent reduction in contamination levels. The findings highlight that no single brand or certification guarantees safety, leaving consumers vulnerable. Herbs like basil, which are common in everyday cooking, were also found to have concerning levels. Such contamination issues can undermine the trust people place in food safety systems. It’s clear that choosing spices requires more scrutiny than most people realize. These findings underscore the need for stricter industry standards and better consumer education.The Health Risks of Heavy Metal ExposureSource: ShutterstockHeavy metals are highly toxic because the body cannot effectively process or eliminate them, allowing them to accumulate over time. This buildup can lead to severe health complications, especially for children, who are more vulnerable to the effects. Exposure to lead, arsenic, and cadmium can impair brain development in children, potentially resulting in lower IQ scores and behavioral issues. Adults are not immune, as these metals can contribute to hypertension, kidney damage, and central nervous system problems. Long-term exposure has also been linked to immune system dysfunction and reproductive issues. Even small amounts of contaminated spices consumed Regularly can exacerbate these risks. The subtle nature of heavy metal toxicity often makes it hard to detect until significant damage has occurred. Given these dangers, taking proactive steps to reduce exposure is essential for protecting long-term health. Addressing this problem starts with identifying and avoiding high-risk products.How Heavy Metals Enter Your SpicesSource: ShutterstockHeavy metals infiltrate spices primarily through contaminated soil and water where the plants are grown, making their presence challenging to avoid. Industrial pollution, pesticide use, and irrigation practices are significant contributors to this contamination. Additionally, the processing and packaging stages can introduce heavy metals through equipment or materials used in manufacturing. Even high-quality herbs and spices are not immune to these risks, as contamination often occurs long before they reach the store shelves. The problem is further compounded by the global nature of spice production, with many products coming from countries where agricultural oversight varies. Consumer Reports highlighted that labeling like “packed in the USA” doesn’t necessarily indicate safety, as it often only refers to where the final packaging occurred. Understanding these pathways of contamination is crucial for consumers who want to make safer choices. Greater transparency from manufacturers about sourcing and processing could also help mitigate these risks.Some Spices Are Safer Than OthersSource: ShutterstockWhile the contamination issue is widespread, not all spices pose the same level of risk. Spices like black pepper, coriander, garlic powder, sesame seeds, and saffron were found to have consistently lower levels of heavy metals. These options provide flavorful alternatives for those looking to reduce their exposure. On the other hand, herbs like basil, oregano, and thyme were flagged as having the highest levels of contamination across multiple brands. This distinction suggests that certain plants may be more prone to absorbing heavy metals from the soil. For consumers, opting for lower-risk spices whenever possible can make a significant difference in overall exposure. It’s also important to diversify your spice use, as relying heavily on one type could increase risk. While these findings are promising, they also highlight the need for comprehensive testing across all spice varieties. Consumers deserve to know which products are safest for their families.Misconceptions About Organic and Imported SpicesSource: ShutterstockMany consumers assume that organic certifications guarantee safety, but testing has shown this isn’t always the case. Organic spices often contain the same levels of heavy metals as their conventionally grown counterparts, defying expectations. Similarly, spices brought home from international

Spice Brands Without Heavy Metals Could Help End Brain Fog

Of these include black pepper, white pepper, coriander, curry powder, garlic powder, saffron and sesame seeds. Versions of these herbs and spices that are low in heavy metals are available in groceries.Avoid bringing back herbs and spices from abroadAccording to CR Director of Food Policy Brian Ronholm, U.S. companies often source the highest quality herbs and spices to import from other countries. In return, spices sold in the domestic market oftentimes have a low quality and contain more heavy metals.Make spice mixes at homeCR's tests revealed that thyme and oregano sold in groceries have high levels of heavy metals, but versions grown and dried at home often have lower levels of these toxic elements. Herbs such as basil, oregano and thyme can be stored and kept for long periods – as dried versions of these often have a stronger flavor.Visit CleanFoodWatch.com for more stories about heavy metals in food.Watch this WCBS 2 news report about concerning levels of heavy metals found in many spices.This video is from the TKWK T.V channel on Brighteon.com.More related stories:Shilajit heavy metals test results released by the non-profit Consumer Wellness Center: HealthForce shows by far the highest in lead and aluminum among brands tested.Ayurvedic shilajit supplement found to contain alarmingly high levels of LEAD and ARSENIC heavy metals: Health Ranger issues consumer warning.Food Forensics exposes alarmingly high lead levels in breakfast cereals, supplements, spices and pet treats.Ginkgo Biloba herbs from China found to contain shockingly high levels of toxic heavy metal lead.Sources include:100PercentFedUp.comConsumerReports.orgBrighteon.com

Beware of Toxic Spices: Heavy Metals Found in Major Brand

Dried herbs and spices are incredible additions to your food, both in terms of taste and health benefits. So when a consumer organization tested dried herbs and spices from 38 brands and revealed that some of them contained “worrisome” quantities of heavy metals like arsenic, lead and cadmium, it had us wondering if we should skip spices all together — or if there are any spice brands without heavy metals.In the investigation, conducted by Consumer Reports, researchers examined 15 dried herbs and spices: basil, black pepper, chili powder, coriander, cumin, curry powder, garlic powder, ginger, oregano, paprika, saffron, sesame seed, thyme, turmeric and white pepper. They selected 126 products manufactured by corporations big and small, both from the United States and other parts of the world. And although the headlines raised alarm, only five of the 126 products tested had amounts of heavy metals that were of “moderate concern” or “high concern.” These products were in the basil, oregano, thyme and turmeric categories.How heavy metals harm healthHeavy metals get their name from their high atomic weights or their grouping on the Periodic Table chart that hung in your high school science class. Heavy metals can be the byproducts of industries like mining, manufacturing and farming. Those metals often end up getting polluted back into our air, water, soil and wildlife. For example, people who eat a lot of tuna fish run the risk of having mercury in their system.Even though we know to avoid heavy metals, these dangerous compounds have a way of finding us. Once in the environment, they can sneak into our bodies undetected in trace amounts. The metals can bind to parts of your cells that prevent your organs from doing their job; and the resulting symptoms like fatigue, anxiety, depression, memory loss, and difficulty concentrating. Long-term exposure to heavy metals can lead to gradually progressing physical, muscular, and neurological degenerative processes that imitate diseases such as multiple sclerosis, Parkinson’s disease, Alzheimer’s disease and muscular dystrophy.And top health expert Mark Hyman, MD, senior advisor at the Cleveland Clinic Center for Functional Medicine, asserts, “Low-level heavy metal toxicity is one of the most common and undiagnosed causes of a whole host of diseases.” Indeed, Dr. Hyman, the 15-time New York Times bestselling wellness author, reveals he also suffered from mercury poisoning. “I felt weak, tired and couldn’t think,” he recalls of his past illness. (Click through to learn more about one woman’s struggle to overcome heavy metal toxicity despite being shrugged off by doctors.)Why you should still fill up on spicesBut the benefits of consuming these spices and herbs are too important to overall health to discontinue their use, says Melina Jampolis, MD, a board-certified physician nutrition specialist and chief medical officer at Ahara, a personalized nutrition app. “I do not recommend that you cut back on herbs and spices,” she says. “In fact, I want you to increase your use, because we know they have head-to-toe benefits — from decreasing risk of heart disease, Alzheimer’s, diabetes and. Spice brands without heavy metals. In the Consumer Reports test of the 126 spices for heavy metals, all of the products tested made by McCormick, Spice Islands, Simply Organic

Cinnamon, Spices, and Heavy Metals: What to Know – Hive Brands

Cancer and helping improve gut health, to name a few.How heavy metals get into herbs and spicesMost soil contains trace amounts of heavy metals; some are naturally occurring, while others come from fertilizers, pesticides, industry and environmental pollution. These toxins are absorbed by plants as they grow. Says Dr. Jampolis, author of Spice Up, Slim Down: A guide to using herbs and spices to live a longer, healthier and more vibrant life: “The nature of environmental contamination makes it almost impossible to completely avoid any toxins, even in foods that are organic.”And while parents do need to be concerned about infant rice cereal contaminated with lead and arsenic, when it comes to herbs and spices, the risk suggested by the Consumer Reports study is somewhat overblown, Dr. Jampolis adds. “Vulnerable populations [infants, the elderly and people with serious chronic health issues] may be more at risk from these contaminants, but for the average person between the ages of 18 and 80 who is consuming a normal diet, you don’t really need to be concerned.”The products with high levels of heavy metals in the study were mostly herbs. Dr. Jampolis says that's likely because "the leaves are most directly fed by the soil, and we eat the whole leaf." But she’s also quick to point out that even among the herbs that were called out, most of the products tested in those herb groups fell into the lowest contamination levels of “no concern” or “some concern.”Spice brands without heavy metalsIn the Consumer Reports test of the 126 spices for heavy metals, all of the products tested made by McCormick, Spice Islands, Simply Organic, Great Value (Walmart's store brand) and Morton & Bassett had the lowest levels of heavy metals, falling into the study’s “no concern” or “some concern” categories. “It’s not necessary to spend a fortune on fancy spices,” says Dr. Jampolis. When it comes to basil, oregano, thyme and turmeric, it's a smart idea to go with one of those five brands.Another reason to replace the herbs and spices in your pantry is if they're old. Dr. Jampolis advises tossing any spices that are more than two years old and doing the same with herbs that are older than one year. “The polyphenols, which are what bring so many of the health benefits, degrade over time and when they’re exposed to light,” she says. “You may still get flavor, but you won’t get the benefit, and maximizing these disease-fighting polyphenols offsets any theoretical harm from very small amounts of contaminants.” (Click through to learn how to tell when spices have gone bad.)Other ways to reduce toxin exposure from herbs and spicesUse blends. Says Dr. Jampolis: “Using an Italian herb blend means you’re diluting everything. So you’re getting a mixture of smaller amounts of thyme, oregano and basil.” (Check this easy recipe on our sister site to make your own blend of Texas Roadhouse Steak Seasoning.)Use a variety of herbs and spices. By using lots of flavors and not focusing heavily