Manufacturers demanded to lower lead, cadmium in dark chocolate

NEW YORK (Reuters): After testing indicated dangerous levels of heavy metals, Consumer Reports have challenged four chocolate manufacturers to make a commitment by Valentine’s Day to lower the concentrations of lead and cadmium in their dark chocolate products.

Consumer Reports warned in letters to Hershey, Mondelez International, Theo Chocolate and Trader Joe s that prolonged exposure to metals can harm the kidneys, the brain system and the immune system.

Because of the possibility of developmental issues, it was stated that pregnant women and young children were more at risk. A petition with about 55,000 signatures was submitted along with the letters.

Consumer Reports reported last month that 23 of the 28 dark chocolate bars it tested contained amounts of lead, cadmium, or both that might be dangerous to consumers who consume more than one ounce of chocolate daily.

According to Consumer Reports, many customers drink dark chocolate due to its possible health advantages and comparatively low sugar content, however “ingesting heavy metals isn t good at all.”

Since Consumer Reports published its survey, people have sued Trader Joe s at least nine times over its dark chocolate.

In response to the magazine s findings, other chocolate manufacturers including Godiva and Lindt have also been sued, in addition to Hershey’s and Mondelez.