Cadmium causes cancer, kidney illness, and frail bones, according to the CDC. Lead exposure can cause neurological disorders and is especially risky for youngsters, says the CDC.
This study showed lead and cadmium in cocoa solids, which are greater in dark chocolate than milk chocolate. The research says heavy metals can enter the cocoa plant through polluted soil or dust when the beans are processed outside.
Lead, cadmium, arsenic, and mercury were measured in three samples from 48 chocolate items, including bars, chips, cake and brownie mixes, and hot cocoa mixes, by Consumer Reports. The team averaged the three samples and compared them to California's food heavy metal MADL.
The Consumer Reports investigation found the greatest lead or cadmium levels per serving in chocolate: Perugina 85% Dark Chocolate Enhanced Dark 72% Cacao Chocolate Bar
Dark Chocolate Gems Hu Good & Gather Semi-Sweet Mini Chocolate Chips Droste Cocoa Powder Natural Unsweetened 100% Cacao Hershey's
Affordable Milk Chocolate Hot Cocoa Mix Starbucks Classic Hot Cocoa Premium Double Chocolate Ghirardelli Brownie Mix
Bob's Red Mill Gluten-Free Chocolate Cake Mix Simple Mills Almond Flour Chocolate Muffin and Cake Mix