Consumer report finds high level of cadmium and lead in chocolate products
Consumer report finds high level of cadmium and lead in chocolate products
By: Pune Pulse
October 27, 2023
Pune: Consumer Reports, a non-profit consumer group, has expressed apprehension regarding the presence of lead and cadmium in a considerable number of chocolate products that were recently subjected to testing. As per their findings, 16 out of the 48 chocolate products from different manufacturers were found to contain levels of these toxic metals that could pose a threat to health if consumed in large quantities.
The tested products encompassed a range of seven categories, comprising dark chocolate bars, milk chocolate bars, cocoa powder, chocolate chips, brownie mixes, chocolate cake, and hot chocolate. Among these, the products that were found to have elevated levels of metal content were a dark chocolate bar and hot chocolate mix from Walmart, cocoa powder, semi-sweet chocolate chips, and hot chocolate mixes. It was observed that only milk chocolate bars, which have lower cocoa solids, did not exhibit excessive amounts of lead or cadmium.
Consumer Reports has emphasized the potential health hazards linked to prolonged exposure to these heavy metals, which encompass issues with the nervous system, suppression of the immune system, and harm to the kidneys. Pregnant women and young children are of particular concern. Although the U.S. Food and Drug Administration regards chocolate as a ‘minor source of exposure’ to lead and cadmium on a worldwide level, it underscores the importance for manufacturers and processors to guarantee the safety of their products.
It has been highlighted by Consumer Reports that a petition signed by over 75,000 consumers urging Hershey to decrease the presence of heavy metals in its chocolate has been renewed.
