08/28/2026
New York State Tightens Lead Limits for Certain Spices
New York State is making spices safer by setting a stricter (lower) limit on how much lead is allowed in certain spices. Beginning January 1, 2028, the maximum allowable amount of lead will be lowered to 600 ppb for the following spices:
The new lead limit will be 600 ppb for these spices:
⢠Curry
⢠Dill seed
⢠Dried basil leaves
⢠Dried non-bell peppers
⢠Nutmeg
⢠Sesame seed
⢠Turmeric
About 85% of these spices already meet this new, stricter limit. If any spice exceeds the allowable lead level, New York State can remove it from store shelves or request a recall.
Children are particularly vulnerable to lead poisoning, which can cause permanent harm to the nervous system. Lead exposure can lead to learning difficulties, developmental delays, and other long-term health issues. If you think your child may have been exposed to lead, talk to their healthcare provider about getting a blood lead test.
For questions about blood lead testing, contact your childās healthcare provider. If your child does not have a provider, or if you have additional questions, reach out to us at [email protected] or call (315) 435-3271.
For more information on New York Stateās action levels in spices, visit: https://agriculture.ny.gov/news/ahead-world-food-safety-day-new-york-state-announces-new-action-levels-heavy-metals-spices