Concerning Levels of Heavy Metals Found in Popular Chocolate Products, Hershey's Urged to Reduce Amounts

Consumer Reports' tests reveal one-third of chocolate products contain higher than safe amounts of lead or cadmium; urges Hershey's and other popular brands to lower heavy metal content to protect consumers.

Consumer Reports found higher than safe amounts of lead and cadmium in a third of the 48 chocolate products tested across seven categories, including products from popular brands like Hershey’s and Nestlé. This included cocoa powders, cake mixes, and hot chocolate.
The measured amount of toxic metals in some products, particularly dark chocolate and cocoa powders, was assumed based on California's protective maximum allowable dose, as there are no specific Food and Drug Administration limits for these contaminants in such products.
Products with the highest levels of lead were: Perugina dark chocolate bars (owned by Nestlé), Hershey’s and Droste cocoa powders, and hot chocolate mixes from Nestlé, Trader Joe’s and Walmart’s Great Value brand.
Long-term exposure to heavy metals such as lead and cadmium can lead to various health risks, including developmental issues in children, nervous system problems, immune system suppression, kidney damage and potentially cancer.
Consumer Reports has petitioned Hershey's CEO Michele Buck and urges other brands to commit to reducing the heavy metal content in their chocolate products. However, Hershey's has claimed that it does not add lead or cadmium to its products and it's working with suppliers to minimize their presence.