Hartford, CT – Several Zaarah Herbals powders have been pulled from store shelves after investigators detected dangerously high levels of lead and inorganic arsenic, the Connecticut Department of Consumer Protection (DCP) confirmed.
The recall stems from an investigation by the DCP’s Food and Standards Division and the Connecticut Agricultural Experiment Station (CAES), which tested samples of Zaarah Herbals products.
“The team’s analysis and collaboration with state and federal partners are essential to protecting Connecticut consumers, and in this case, may have helped consumers in our neighboring states as well,” said DCP Commissioner Bryan T. Cafferelli.
The affected products, packaged in 100g (3.5 oz) clear jars with gold lids, include Bhringraj Powder (UPC: 6 35028 99973 1), Gurmar Powder (UPC: 6 35028 99969 4), Vasaka Powder (UPC: 6 35028 99967 0), and Rasayan Churan (UPC: 6 35028 99966 3).
The powders were distributed between Dec. 20, 2024, and Jan. 7, 2025, in Connecticut, New York, New Jersey, and California.
According to the DCP, lead exposure can lead to anemia, seizures, and coma, with risks depending on age and body weight.
Inorganic arsenic consumption has been linked to cancer, skin lesions, and heart disease. Pregnant individuals are particularly vulnerable to chronic exposure.
“No illnesses have been reported to date,” the department stated. Consumers are urged not to consume these products and to return them for a full refund.
“This recall demonstrates the team’s diligence to ensure food safety and product quality,” said Food and Standards Director Frank Greene.
For complaints, consumers can email DCP.FoodandStandards@ct.gov.
