Consumer Reports Calls for Reduction in Heavy Metals in Chocolate
Concerning Levels of Heavy Metals Found in Chocolate Products
Consumer Reports has recently conducted tests on a variety of chocolate products and discovered “concerning” levels of lead and cadmium. As a result, they are urging Hershey, a leading chocolate maker, to take action and reduce the presence of these heavy metals in their chocolate.
Wide Range of Products Impacted
The tests conducted by Consumer Reports examined 48 chocolate products across seven categories, including dark chocolate, milk chocolate, cocoa powder, chocolate chips, and various mixes. Out of these, 16 products were found to contain potentially harmful levels of lead, cadmium, or both. Interestingly, all 48 products contained detectable amounts of these metals, with the exception of milk chocolate bars.
Potential Health Risks
Consumer Reports has emphasized that long-term exposure to lead and cadmium can lead to severe health problems, including damage to the nervous and immune systems, as well as kidney damage. Pregnant women and young children are particularly vulnerable to these risks.
Brands Implicated
Several popular brands were found to have excessive levels of heavy metals in their chocolate products. These included Walmart’s dark chocolate bar and hot chocolate mix, Hershey’s cocoa powder, Droste’s cocoa powder, Target’s semi-sweet chocolate chips, and hot chocolate mixes from Trader Joe’s, Nestle, and Starbucks.
Previous Findings and Petition
This is not the first time Consumer Reports has raised concerns about heavy metals in chocolate. In December of last year, they discovered excessive lead or cadmium in 23 out of 28 tested dark chocolate bars, including Hershey products. As a result, the magazine has launched a petition urging Hershey to address this issue. Over 75,000 consumers have already signed the petition.
Hershey’s Response
Hershey’s Chief Financial Officer, Steve Voskuil, has acknowledged the issue and expressed the company’s commitment to reducing lead and cadmium levels. However, he also mentioned that the variation in these metals can be attributed to the cocoa’s origin from different countries.
Reassurance from the National Confectioners Association
The National Confectioners Association, to which Hershey referred the request for comment, has reassured consumers that chocolate and cocoa are safe to consume. They claim that these products have been enjoyed for centuries without any significant health risks.
In conclusion, Consumer Reports’ latest findings have highlighted the presence of concerning levels of lead and cadmium in a wide range of chocolate products. As a result, they are urging Hershey to take immediate action to reduce these heavy metals, ensuring the safety and well-being of consumers.
