Dark chocolate found to contain harmful metals, study reveals
A recent study has unveiled the presence of lead and cadmium, two neurotoxic metals associated with cancer and chronic diseases, in dark chocolate and similar cocoa products. The research, published in the journal Frontiers in Nutrition, attributes this contamination to metal-containing fertilizers' overuse and persistent industrial pollution. These toxic elements are found in the soil where cocoa crops are cultivated.
Organic dark chocolate shows high levels of toxic metals
Surprisingly, the study found that organic dark chocolate, despite being grown in less contaminated environments, contained some of the highest levels of lead and cadmium. The research team focused on pure dark chocolate products as they have the highest cacao content, which is the raw, unprocessed part of the cacao bean. This finding raises concerns about the safety and purity of organic food products.
Cocoa products' lead and cadmium levels raise health concerns
Jane Houlihan, the national director of science and health for Healthy Babies Bright Futures, expressed concern over the study's findings. She noted that the average levels of lead and cadmium in cocoa-containing products in the new study match or exceed the average amounts the US Food and Drug Administration finds in the most highly contaminated foods they test. Houlihan warned of increased risks for young children, pregnant women, and regular chocolate consumers.
Confectioners association asserts safety of chocolate consumption
In response to the study, the National Confectioners Association maintained that "chocolate and cocoa are safe to eat and can be enjoyed as treats as they have been for centuries. Food safety and product quality remain our highest priorities." This statement underscores the industry's commitment to ensuring the safety and quality of their products despite recent findings.
Study reveals high levels of toxic metals in cocoa products
The study, which analyzed 72 consumer cocoa products over an eight-year period, found that 43% exceeded California's Proposition 65 maximum allowable dose level for lead, while 35% surpassed the same standard for cadmium. The testing was conducted by Consumer Labs, which sent samples to various laboratories to ensure accuracy. These findings raise significant concerns about the safety of consuming cocoa products.
Experts advise caution, not fear, in chocolate consumption
Senior study author Leigh Frame advised that healthy adults who limit their intake should not fear eating chocolate. However, Tewodros Godebo, an assistant professor of environmental geochemistry at Tulane University School of Public Health and Tropical Medicine, warned that the risk of heavy metal exposure increases for those who are medically compromised, pregnant or young children. Despite these risks, Godebo concluded that healthy adults shouldn't worry too much about indulging in dark chocolate occasionally.
