More Contaminants In Our Herbs Spices?
Topic # 107
Last month’s post discussed high levels of lead in some brands of cinnamon. Today, we will see that toxic contaminates may be found in other spices and herbs. Consumer Reports discovered, “Roughly one-third of the [126] tested products, 40 in total, had high enough levels of arsenic, lead, and cadmium combined, on average, to pose a health concern for children when regularly consumed in typical serving sizes. Most raised concern for adults, too, [and] … 31 products [had] levels of lead [that] were so high that they exceeded the maximum amount anyone should have in a day, according to CR’s experts.”1
Worse still were the findings that neither brand nor “organic” standing didn’t matter. However, herbs tested better than spices. Ground spices seem to be the significant purveyors of heavy metals like arsenic, cadmium, and lead.
If this information concerns you, you may wish to begin the new year by clearing out your herb and spice cabinet and replacing the old brands with new ones. You may find spices that are heavy metal-free (or close to) at local markets or perhaps online. The link below will give you a list, so you can consider better choices while adding wonderful flavors to your food.
https://www.mamavation.com/food/spices-free-from-heavy-metals-lead-arsenic-cadmium.html