Popular dark chocolate brands contain heavy metal

According to the report, eating just one ounce (28 grams) of chocolate per day would exceed the recommended levels for certain heavy metals in 23 of the sampled brands. Even more surprising is the fact that the sampled brands are among the most popular and well-established, including Trader Joe’s, Hershey’s and Lindt.

In a statement Tunde Akinleye, a researcher with Consumer Reports, said that the metals have a huge potential health impact. Metals are riskiest in pregnant women and young children. If children consume such metals, they could hamper brain development.

Besides children, Akinleye said that they can harm adults as well. Young people who consume such metals are at a high risk of suffering from hypertension, kidney damage and reproductive issues, among others.

While most brands were found to have crossed the bar with heavy metals, some had promising outcomes. According to Akinleye, five brands were found to contain safe levels of cadmium. This is an indication that safety is attainable with the right desire.

For the study, Consumer reports used California standards for maximum allowed levels of lead at 0.5 micrograms and cadmium at 4.1 micrograms. It was found that some brands contained more than 100% of the recommended amounts. For instance, Lindt’s excellent dark chocolate was found to contain 166% more lead and cadmium than allowed in California.

Speaking to members of the press, Lindt & Sprüngli Group spokesperson said that the company pays attention to safety. However, the firm was unable to explain the high levels of heavy metals.

Christopher Gindlesperger of the National Confectioners Association related the high levels of lead and cadmium in chocolate to its farming process. In an investigation done in 2008, he said that lead and cadmium are present in chocolate due to the soil where cocoa grows.

the presence of heavy metals in popular dark chocolate brands. Heavy metals, such as lead and cadmium, are toxic to humans and can have harmful health effects when consumed in high amounts. The study tested samples of dark chocolate from various brands and found that the levels of lead and cadmium in the chocolate exceeded the limits set by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA).

The study highlights the importance of regulation and monitoring of heavy metal levels in food products, including chocolate. The article states that the FDA currently has no specific regulations for the levels of heavy metals in chocolate and that the agency should take action to ensure the safety of consumers. The study also suggests that consumers should be cautious when consuming dark chocolate and that they should choose brands that have lower levels of heavy metals.

The article stresses the need for better regulation and monitoring of heavy metals in food products and encourages consumers to make informed choices about the products they consume. The study provides important information for individuals who are concerned about the safety and quality of their food and highlights the importance of ongoing research in this area.

Source: Bonface Landi