A test at the pediatrician’s office revealed that Noelie had lead poisoning, with more than three times as much lead as the level considered concerning by the CDC.

Studies show that among children with lead poisoning in the U.S., contaminated spices were one of several sources of lead exposure.

“So, there’s this huge window of people — primarily children — who have lead poisoning, but there’s no treatment available,” Rees said.

Earlier this year, the FDA recalled 3 million cinnamon applesauce pouches that contained extremely high levels of lead, after dozens of children across the United States were found to be suffering from lead poisoning.

In addition to the ongoing threat of lead poisoning, the large birds are also at risk from other toxins.