Significant Levels Of Toxic Heavy Metals Like Lead, Cadmium & Arsenic Found In 72 Cocoa-Based Products: Study

Chocolate is a beloved treat worldwide. However, recent findings reveal a concerning presence of toxic heavy metals in cocoa-derived products, including chocolate. A new analysis of 72 such products uncovered significant levels of metals like lead, cadmium, and arsenic. These findings raise questions about the safety of consuming chocolate, especially in large quantities.

Significant Levels Of Toxic Heavy Metals Found Cocoa Products

The metals enter cocoa beans naturally from the soil where they are grown. Soils around the world contain varying levels of these metals, which can be absorbed by plants, including the cocoa bean tree. This means that even your favourite chocolate might carry traces of these harmful substances.

In a study led by Leigh Frame and Jacob Hands from the George Washington School of Medicine and Health Sciences, researchers tested 72 cocoa-based products. These products were tested every other year over eight years. The results were eye-opening:

– 43% of the products exceeded the maximum allowable dose level for lead.
– 35% surpassed the highest allowable dose level for cadmium.
– None of the products exceeded the limit for arsenic.

Surprisingly, products labelled as organic had higher levels of lead and cadmium compared to non-organic ones. This challenges the common belief that organic products are always safer and healthier.

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Heavy Metals In Food

According to Frame, consuming a single serving of chocolate per day is unlikely to pose any significant health risk. However, consuming multiple servings or combining chocolate with other foods high in heavy metals could lead to dangerous levels of exposure. For example, large fish like tuna and unwashed brown rice are known to contain heavy metals, so caution is advised when consuming these alongside chocolate.

Heavy metals are not just a concern in chocolate. Foods imported from countries with less stringent regulations on soil contaminants, such as China, Nigeria, India, and Egypt, may also contain high levels of heavy metals. Organ meats, shellfish, and some herbal supplements can be particularly risky. Additionally, foods like seaweed, especially Hijiki seaweed, are known to contain cadmium.

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The recent study, published in ‘Frontiers in Medicine’, highlights the importance of moderation in consuming chocolate and other foods that may contain heavy metals. While it’s not practical to avoid heavy metals in food entirely, being aware of what you’re eating and how much can help mitigate potential health risks. So, enjoy your chocolate, but do so in moderation, and be mindful of the sources of other foods in your diet.

Cover Image Courtesy: Canva (Representative Image)