In a recent study published in the journal Frontiers in Nutrition , researchers evaluated heavy metal levels in cocoa-based consumer products in the United States over an eight-year period. Study: A multi-year heavy metal analysis of 72 dark chocolate and cocoa products in the USA. Image Credit: DesignMarjolein / Shutterstock.
com Heavy metal contamination in cocoa Cocoa food products are high in dietary polyphenols associated with numerous health benefits. The close proximity of cocoa fields to other pollution sources may lead to heavy metal contamination in dark chocolate products. In fact, several studies have reported the presence of heavy metals such as lead, cadmium, and arsenic in these products; however, the extent of this contamination remains unclear.
Exposure to cadmium has been associated with various adverse health effects, some of which include cardiovascular disease, renal failure, cognitive impairment, diabetes, cancer, and osteoporosis. Thus, improving food quality, particularly for young children and pregnant women, is strongly advised. About the study The researchers examined 72 cocoa products for the presence of cadmium, arsenic, and lead between 2014 and 2022.
Threshold values were used to evaluate heavy metal exposure based on the Prop 65 maximum acceptable dosage levels (MADLs) of 0.50 micrograms (μg) for lead, 4.10 μg for cadmium, and 10 μg for arsenic daily.
Cocoa products were purchased from third-party internet shops, manufacturer or supplier webs.