Some of your favorite sweet treats may contain heavy metals, a new report warns.
The report, published Oct. 25, 2023, in Consumer Reports, found heavy metals — lead and cadmium — in chocolate chips, chocolate bars, brownie mix and hot cocoa from major retailers and specialty brands alike.
Among the 48 products Consumer Reports tested, lead and cadmium were detected in every single one. And 16 chocolate products contained heavy metals in amounts that exceeded levels of concern, the report says. Previously, Consumer Reports found lead and cadmium in 23 dark chocolate bars, TODAY.com reported.
The National Confectioners Association, an industry trade group, counters that these products are fine to consume.
“Chocolate and cocoa are safe to eat and can be enjoyed as treats as they have been for centuries,” Christopher Gindlesperger, NCA spokesman, tells TODAY.com in a statement. “Food safety and product quality remain our highest priorities and we remain dedicated to being transparent and socially responsible.”
Test results
Cadmium is a cancer-causing agent, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention say, and long-term exposure can lead to kidney disease and fragile bones. Exposure to lead can cause neurological issues and is particularly dangerous for children, the CDC says.
In this study, lead and cadmium were found in cocoa solids, which are present in higher concentrations in dark chocolate than in milk chocolate. Heavy metals may enter the cocoa plant via contaminated soil or as dust while the beans are processed outdoors after they’re harvested, the report explains.
Consumer Reports tested the levels of lead, cadmium, arsenic and mercury in three samples from 48 chocolate products, including bars, chocolate chips, cake and brownie mixes and hot cocoa mixes. The team averaged the results from the three samples and measured those results against the standards set out in California’s maximum allowable dose levels (MADL) for heavy metals in food.
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