A recent study conducted by scientists at George Washington University found that many dark chocolate products sold nationwide may contain excessive amounts of heavy metals such as lead and cadmium. The study examined over 70 dark chocolate products and found that 43% exceeded acceptable levels of lead, while 35% exceeded acceptable levels of cadmium. These findings were based on California guidelines that set maximum allowable dose levels for heavy metals in food, as the FDA does not have specific limits for most foods. The study recommended consuming chocolate in moderation to reduce exposure to heavy metals.
The research also found that organic cocoa products were more likely to have higher levels of cadmium and lead, contrary to popular belief that organic foods are cleaner. The study did not disclose the specific brands that were tested, as levels of heavy metals can vary even within the same company. The study raised concerns about how heavy metals enter chocolate products, with cadmium coming from the cacao plant absorbing it from the soil, and lead being introduced during the manufacturing process.
Another study conducted by Tulane University found that heavy metal levels in chocolate were not concerning according to EPA standards, which use the hazard quotient to determine toxicity. However, the study recommended limiting consumption of dark chocolate to one ounce per day, especially for children and pregnant women. The new study did not investigate milk chocolate, but suggested that it may have a lower risk of heavy metal contamination compared to dark chocolate due to lower levels of cocoa powder.
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