FDA Warns Consumers Not to Use Swad Brand Sindoor: Product Contains High Levels of Lead

FDA, Dec 17, 2007

Orange or red powder that is applied to face or scalp: not intended for food use

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration is warning consumers not to use 3.5 oz. packages of Swad brand sindoor, an orange or red powder used in some traditional South Asian Pacific ceremonies that is applied to the face or scalp, imported by Raja Foods LLC of Skokie, Illinois because the product contains high levels of lead. Although the product was not intended to be sold for food use, its labeling is confusing and implies that it may be used as food. The Illinois Department of Public Health has confirmed two cases of lead poisoning in consumers who used the product as an ingredient in home cooked meals. Other uses of the product, including as a cosmetic, can also be dangerous due to the high lead levels.

Lead can be toxic to all humans but due to the risks it poses to a developing nervous system, women of childbearing age, pregnant women and their unborn children, and young children should be especially cautious and limit their exposure to lead. Symptoms of lead toxicity include: stomach aches, colic, nausea, vomiting, abnormal irritability, and insomnia. However, people with lead in their blood often do not exhibit symptoms. Permanent damage to the central nervous system from lead exposure can result in learning difficulties in school children as well as cause other long-term health problems such as kidney disease. Anyone who has consumed this product should consult his or her health care provider immediately.

At least 280 packages of Sindoor were distributed to grocery stores that specialize in foods from India in Colorado, Georgia, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, Nebraska, New York, Ohio, Oregon, Tennessee, Texas, Washington, and Wisconsin.

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