Swad-brand sindoor powder is recalled

Washington -- The U.S. Food and Drug Administration issued a warning against using Swad-brand sindoor -- a colored powder used in some South Asian Pacific ceremonies.

The FDA said 3.5-ounce packages of the red or orange powder might contain high levels of lead. Although the powder is usually applied to the face or scalp and isn't intended to be sold as a food, its labeling is confusing and implies it may be consumed, officials said.

The Illinois Department of Public Health 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, the FDA said.

Raja Foods LLC of Skokie, Ill., said at least 280 packages of sindoor were distributed to grocery stores that specialize in foods from India, located in Colorado, Georgia, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, Nebraska, New York, Ohio, Oregon, Tennessee, Texas, Washington and Wisconsin.

Packages of sindoor can be returned to the place of purchase for a full refund. Consumers with questions can contact the company at 800-800-7923 Extension 2860.

Copyright 2007 by United Press International.