Closing the Gap: Strengthening Standards for Lead in Spices and Dietary Supplements to Protect Maternal and Infant Health

Spice contamination and adulteration are longstanding global concerns across multiple points of the food supply chain, from production to distribution. Dietary supplements intended for pregnant and lactating individuals have also been found to contain heavy metals at levels exceeding regulatory recommendations. This review examines spices and dietary supplements as underrecognized, non-traditional sources of heavy metal exposure, with an emphasis on maternal and infant health. Published studies on lead contamination in spices and supplements were evaluated alongside evidence related to pregnancy, lactation, infancy, and early childhood. Relevant U.S. and international regulatory frameworks were also reviewed to identify policy and practice gaps that may limit prevention efforts. Findings highlight an important connection between food safety, regulatory oversight, and maternal and infant health. Lead contamination in spices and dietary supplements represents a preventable yet underrecognized public health risk that underscores the need to address regulatory gaps. International, federal, and state-level actions across the supply chain may help reduce heavy metal contamination in food sources. Further exploration of exposure pathways and policy responses is needed to strengthen standards, improve supply-chain transparency, and enhance product reliability while protecting maternal and infant health.