Hialeah, FL – Spices USA Inc. is recalling 772 bags, 50 pounds each, of TASTY SAWA GROUND TURMERIC, used for furthering manufacturing or repacking, because it contains elevated levels of lead. Consumers are warned not to use the product. Lead can accumulate in the body over time, and too much of it can cause serious and sometimes permanent adverse health consequences.

TASTY SAWA GROUND TURMERIC was distributed in Florida and New York, and in the Dominican Republic, France, Colombia, Jamaica, and Barbados. Spices USA Inc. sells its products to distributors and re-packers, not directly to consumers.

THE PRODUCT WAS PACKED IN 50 LBS YELLOW POLYPROPYLENE BAGS PRINTED WITH THE FOLLOWING INFORMATION:

BRAND TASTY SAWA

SIZE 50 LB BAGS

LOT NUMBER 120674

USE BY 4/2018

COUNTRY OF ORIGIN: INDIA

The recall was initiated after FDA informed us of positive sample results of the product contained elevated levels of lead. Upon making the proper inquiries about the root cause of this problem, our firm believes that the only possible explanation resides directly in the plant in INDIA where the product was packed.

The product was not handled, modified or opened by Spices USA, Inc. before shipping to buyers . No illnesses have been reported to date in connection with this problem. All buyers have been contacted by Spices USA Inc. and advised to either return or destroy the product and to contact their customers with the same instructions if this product was repacked under another label.

Consumers who have purchased the TASTY SAWA GROUND TURMEIC are urged to return it to the place of purchase for a full refund. Consumers with questions may contact the company representative at 1-800-583-0250 between the hours of 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. EST.

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