UBC Food Distributors Inc. in Dearborn, MI is recalling 7-ounce plastic jars of their Baraka brand “HOT CURRY POWER” and “CURRY POWDER,” after testing by the Michigan Department of Agriculture & Rural Development found high traces of lead, which is particularly dangerous for pregnant women, infants and children.
This recall notice joins another curry powder recall from earlier this week, which included six other brands of curry powder, for excessive lead levels. According to the most recent recall notice, “This product was purchased from an importer, who, along with the FDA, are now in the process of contacting the source, so that corrective action can be taken on their part.” The recall notice did not state the country of origin for the curry powder being recalled by UBC Food Distributors Inc.
Less than 20 cases of the recalled Bakara brand curry spice products were shipped by UBC Distributors Inc. between June 15 and July 31, 2018 to distributors in Michigan, Minnesota, Illinois, Indiana, Ohio, Missouri and Colorado.
Packaged in 7-ounce plastic jars, the recalled curry powders have UPC Codes “822514265566” and “822514265535.” Consumers can identify the recalled curry powders by checking for those numbers.
According to the recall, no illnesses have been reported to date by public health authorities. Use or consumption of this product may elevate lead levels in the blood.
“This recall is being made with the knowledge of the Food and Drug Administration and is being done voluntarily by UBC Food Distributors Inc and its affiliates,” the recall notice said. It did not name either the importer or country of origin for the recalled curry brand.
Consumers are being asked to cease use of the recalled products, and immediately return any unused portions to the outlet of purchase. Consumers can call UBC Customer Care at 877-846-8117 with additional questions.
Advice to consumers
Lead is a toxic substance present in our environment in small amounts and everyone is exposed to some lead from daily actions such as inhaling dust, eating food, or drinking water. In general, the small exposure to lead within the U.S. population does not pose a significant public health concern.
However, exposure to larger amounts of lead can cause lead poisoning. While lead can affect nearly every bodily system, its effects depend upon the amount and duration of lead exposure and age. Symptoms can include abdominal pain, vomiting, lethargy, irritability, weakness, behavior or mood changes, delirium, seizures, and coma.
However, infants, young children and the developing fetus can be affected by chronic exposure to amounts of lead that may not result in obvious symptoms of lead poisoning. A child with lead poisoning may not look or act sick. Lead poisoning in children can cause: learning disabilities, developmental delays, and lower IQ scores.
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