Andrew Zimmern and the Mystery of Burning Mouth Syndrome
A decade ago, celebrity chef Andrew Zimmern fell ill after eating cumin contaminated with heavy metals. The incident occurred in North Africa, where he contracted a rare condition known as burning mouth syndrome. Despite this setback, Zimmern has continued to embrace bold flavours—including the very spice that once made him ill.
The trouble began in 2005 when Zimmern consumed tainted cumin during a trip to North Africa. The spice, sourced from Turkey, contained high levels of heavy metals, triggering a viral reaction. This led to burning mouth syndrome, a disorder marked by a persistent burning sensation with no visible cause. The condition affects around 1–3% of people worldwide, though its origins often remain unclear.
Zimmern’s experience wasn’t an isolated case. In 2015, a major U.S. recall pulled cumin from shelves after peanut protein—an undeclared allergen—was found in the spice. The issue highlighted a broader problem: pre-ground cumin, especially from open markets, is highly susceptible to contamination.
Yet Zimmern hasn’t turned his back on the spice. He still uses cumin in his cooking, refusing to let past incidents limit his culinary adventures. North Africa, in particular, remains one of his favourite regions for its vibrant food culture. These days, he hosts Wild Game Kitchen, a show where he cooks wild game over open flames, proving his passion for intense and unconventional flavours.
Burning mouth syndrome left a lasting mark on Zimmern’s health, but it didn’t dampen his enthusiasm for food. He continues to explore global cuisines, even those tied to his past illness. Meanwhile, the risks of contaminated cumin persist, serving as a reminder of the hidden dangers in unregulated spice markets.
