Current recall status for McCormick cinnamon
As of the latest public communications from McCormick and ongoing oversight by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), there have been recalls of certain cinnamon products due to elevated levels of coumarin, and specific lots have been pulled from shelves. Coumarin, a naturally occurring compound, can contribute to liver issues when consumed in high amounts over time. No widespread consumer illnesses have been conclusively linked to McCormick cinnamon in verified reports to date, but the company and regulators acted to reduce potential risk. Below is a concise overview of what is verified, what to check in your pantry, and practical next steps.
What prompt the recall
Coumarin and food safety
Cinnamon contains coumarin, with higher levels commonly found in cassia cinnamon compared to Ceylon varieties. Health authorities have noted that very high dietary intake of coumarin may be associated with liver toxicity in sensitive individuals. Regulatory reviews periodically evaluate these compounds in foods and supplements. When routine sampling by regulators or internal quality checks identify levels that exceed a manufacturer’s own standards or guidance, companies may voluntarily issue recalls to protect consumers, even if risk is generally low with normal use.
Products affected and how to check
Recalls are highly lot-specific, affecting only certain sizes, flavors, and UPC codes. To determine whether your item is included, you need the product name, size, lot number (often printed on the jar or packaging), and the Universal Product Code (UPC). Do not rely on a product’s general name or brand alone. If the lot you have is listed in a recall notice, stop using it and follow the instructions below. If the lot is not listed, the product is not part of the recall.
| Attribute | Verified Detail | Source Type |
|---|---|---|
| Recalled product(s) | Selected lots of McCormick cinnamon products | Company and FDA notices |
| Reason | Elevated coumarin levels in specific lots | Regulatory sampling results |
| Health risk | Potential liver effects with high long term intake; not typical dietary exposure | Scientific assessments |
| Consumer action | Check lot/UPC; stop using recalled lots; return or dispose | Recall instructions |
Immediate steps if you have recalled cinnamon
- Check the lot number and UPC on the packaging against the official recall list.
- If your product matches, discontinue use immediately.
- Return the item to the place of purchase for a refund, or contact McCormick for instructions.
- Discard recalled product safely to prevent accidental use.
- Monitor for any new information from the FDA or McCormick if you are uncertain.
Health context: coumarin in cinnamon
Coumarin occurs naturally in many plants, including cinnamon. Cassia cinnamon typically has higher coumarin than Ceylon cinnamon. Regulatory bodies set limits for coumarin in foods and monitor dietary exposure from all sources. Most people consume cinnamon in amounts well below concerning levels, but individuals with liver conditions or those taking medications processed by the liver should consult a healthcare professional for personalized advice if concerned about cumulative intake from multiple sources.
How to verify a recall for yourself
- Visit the FDA recall page and the company’s recall or safety notices.
- Locate the product name, size, lot number, and UPC on the item.
- Cross-check the lot and UPC against the official list; recalls are specific to particular distributions.
- Follow the recommended consumer instructions, which typically include returning the product for a refund or proper disposal.
What this means going forward
Recalls like this underscore the importance of lot-specific verification and transparent communication between regulators, companies, and consumers. McCormick and other stakeholders typically update their guidance as new information becomes available. Continuing to check official sources before acting, and reading labels for lot numbers, helps ensure that recalled items are not inadvertently used. For most consumers, normal use of cinnamon as part of a varied diet does not pose a significant health risk; the key is attentiveness to specific recall notices when they occur.