In our multicultural family, food is more than flavor; it celebrates connection, heritage, and memory. My Filipino background and my husband’s Indian roots have each brought vibrant, unique flavors to our table, making cooking with spices a ritual that bridges our histories and brings us together, especially as we raise our daughter. Yet, amid the joy and comfort these spices bring, an underlying concern lingers: lead contamination.
Our kitchen is where adobo meets masala, filling the air with the aromas of garlic, chilies, and turmeric. These spices are so deeply woven into our recipes that questioning their safety feels almost surreal. Still, knowing the risks of lead, especially to our young daughter whose growing body is most vulnerable, makes it impossible to ignore.
Navigating this concern has been both confusing and challenging. On one hand, these traditional foods connect us to our roots and offer our daughter a window into her heritage. On the other hand, we have a responsibility to protect her health. How do we balance these needs when information on safe sourcing is limited? For us, awareness has been our first step.
Here’s what we’ve learned:
Prioritize Fresh Ingredients: When possible, choose whole or fresh spices, as they are less likely to be contaminated.
Research Trusted Brands: Look for USDA Organic certifications or third-party heavy metal testing. One trusted vendor we’ve found is Red Ape Cinnamon.
Test When in Doubt: Regular health check-ups, including lead testing, provide peace of mind.
Each meal now serves as a reminder of our bond as a family and the lengths we’ll go to protect one another. By sharing our journey, we hope to encourage other families to continue enjoying their traditions with confidence and care.
For more information, please visit the Rhode Island Department of Health's website or call the Health Information Line at 401-222-5960 (translation and interpreter services are available).
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