Are you risking your health by using spices with high levels of heavy metals in your cooking?
Spices can be a great addition to your food, adding zest and flavor, but there is increasing concern about spices that contain high levels of toxic heavy metals.
High levels of arsenic, cadmium and lead have been found in many spices. The Federal Food and Drug Administration has even estimated that twelve percent of spices imported to the U.S. are contaminated, particularly when bought and sold in bulk.
Commonly-contaminated spices include basics like black pepper, oregano, turmeric, curry powder, paprika, and chili powder.
Frequent exposure to even relatively small amounts of lead, arsenic, cadmium, and other heavy metals can be very dangerous.
In children, exposure can affect brain development, increasing the risk for behavioral problems, lower IQ and even autism. In adults, it can contribute to central nervous system problems, reproductive problems and can damage kidney and immune function.
Common symptoms of increased heavy metal exposure include diarrhea, nausea, abdominal pain, vomiting, chills, weakness, and shortness of breath.
You can minimize your and your family’s exposure to heavy metals in spices by being aware of the risks and avoiding those with potentially toxic levels of heavy metals.
Look out for FDA alerts, do not buy your spices loose from open containers and buy pre-packaged spices from reputable companies who manufacture their products to minimize consumers exposure to heavy metals.
Experts also suggest doing your homework before shopping, choosing products with the lowest levels of heavy metals available. Multiple studies have been conducted on which herbs and spices are the way to go. The attorneys at GFM represent consumers who have purchased and been exposed to spices with high levels of heavy metals in claims for damages and injunctive relief.
If you believe you have been exposed to heavy metals in the spices you use, contact us. The attorneys at George Feldman McDonald, PLLC have decades of experience successfully litigating Class Action consumer protection and fraud claims against some of the largest and most powerful companies in the nation. Call at (833) FIND-JUSTICE or visit us at our website: www.4-justice.com for more information.