Health Canada Recall ~ Curcumin supplements

Organika Health Products Curcumin (Turmeric) had a Health Canada Recall in 2011. I use this supplement daily and came across this recall when researching the product further. This postscript is to alert curcumin and other health supplement users to always be “buyer beware”. The cynic in me would guess the company response would be “there is such a small amount (of ethylene dichloride) in the capsules it would not affect a person”. Fact is the chemical is used in processing the capsules; the raw material was contaminated and was recalled.

Curcumin Supplement Recall

Here are relevant links:

The lot No. Recall: was 046897 and here is Health Canada Link (scroll down to Curcumin)
Article on “Toxic Solvent Found in Curcumin Extract”

Quote: The most commonly used solvents for extracting curcuminoids from turmeric root are acetone, ethyl acetate, or ethanol - all Class 3 solvents, ie, much less toxic. However, after much investigation and sleuthing, I learned that using a toxic chemical such as EDC is more effective and much cheaper than using these Class 3 solvents."

and

.... " found the following (short term effects) : Central nervous system disorders, adverse liver, kidney, and lung effects; and heart failure. Long Term effects: a probable human carcinogen." (Refer Page 52 "Integrative Medicine Nov 9 No 5 Oct / Nov 2010)

Health Canada Curcumin Recall Information

Trade Name
Curcumin Capsules

Recall Posting Date
2011-04-18

Recalling Firm
Organika Health Products Inc., 13480 Verdun Place, Richmond, British Columbia,V6V 1V2

Recall Start Date
2011-03-15
DIN, NPN, DIN-HM
NPN 80000221

Hazard Classification
Type II

Dosage Form
Capsule

Strength
N/A

Lot Number
046897

Marketing Authorization Holder
Organika Health Products Inc., 13480 Verdun Place, Richmond, British Columbia, V6V 1V2

Reason for Recall
Raw material contaminated with ethylene dichloride.

Depth of Recall - Distribution
Retailers across Canada

This is a product claiming to be “truth in a bottle” which was sold as being “the best on the market” by the local health food store owner. Caution and due diligence should be exercised at all times, in researching products you use.

Please check your lot numbers as this product has a long shelf life (of several years).

Link to original CAP article "Turmeric (Curcuma Longa) - is it really a wonder spice .... "