Understanding the Concern: Cassava and Heavy Metal Contamination
Cassava, also known as yuca or manioc, is a starchy root vegetable that has gained popularity as a gluten-free alternative in many food products, including chips, flours, and pasta. The primary concern regarding lead levels in Siete chips and other products stems from the cassava flour used as a main ingredient. Since cassava is a root vegetable, it is particularly susceptible to absorbing heavy metals, like lead, from the soil in which it's grown.
Findings from Consumer Reports
In early 2025, Consumer Reports (CR) published an investigative report that tested 27 cassava-based products for lead contamination. The findings were significant: more than two-thirds of the products tested had a single serving that exceeded the acceptable daily intake level for lead as determined by CR's food safety experts. Some products showed lead levels more than 2,000% higher than the acceptable threshold. The report specifically noted that cassava chips were among the products with high levels. While CR's report did not focus exclusively on the Siete brand, it highlighted a broader issue affecting the cassava product market.
Independent Lab Testing on Siete Products
Following the CR report, independent testing by organizations like Lead Safe Mama further examined specific Siete products. For example, a September 2024 lab report showed that Siete Serrano Sea Salt Vinegar Kettle Cooked Potato Chips tested positive for unsafe levels of lead, arsenic, and cadmium. Other reports from Lead Safe Mama also flagged Siete Almond Flour Tortillas and Grain Free Tortilla Chips for detectable lead levels, leading to increased consumer scrutiny.
Siete Foods' Response and Safety Standards
In response to consumer concerns, Siete Foods has acknowledged the presence of naturally occurring heavy metals in the environment and stated its commitment to minimizing their levels. According to the company's FAQ page, its suppliers undergo multiple rounds of third-party lab testing for heavy metals, including lead, to ensure compliance with FDA standards and California's Proposition 65 requirements. The company emphasizes its rigorous safety standards and vetting process for suppliers to maintain product quality. However, the difference in findings between independent tests and Siete's stated standards raises questions for consumers.
A Comparison of Cassava-Based vs. Corn-Based Chips
When considering snack options, the base ingredient plays a significant role in potential heavy metal exposure. This table compares cassava-based and corn-based chips, a common alternative.
| Feature | Cassava-Based Chips (e.g., Siete grain-free) | Corn-Based Chips (e.g., Siete Maiz Totopos) |
|---|---|---|
| Heavy Metal Risk | Higher risk, particularly for lead, due to root vegetable's tendency to absorb from soil. Independent tests have identified concerning levels. | Generally lower risk for heavy metals like lead. While not immune, corn typically absorbs less from the soil than root crops. |
| Common Concerns | Contaminants from soil, potential processing issues. Cassava can also contain natural toxins like cyanide if not properly processed. | Mycotoxins (e.g., aflatoxins) and pesticides are common concerns with corn, especially non-organic varieties. |
| Dietary Profile | Grain-free, gluten-free, often paleo-friendly. Contains cassava flour and other ingredients like coconut flour and chia seed. | Made from organic corn. A good alternative for those who tolerate corn and want to avoid potential cassava issues. |
| Manufacturer Sourcing | Varies greatly. Siete claims strict third-party testing for their cassava flour suppliers. | Siete's Maiz Totopos use organic corn and are certified organic, which may indicate a focus on cleaner sourcing. |
Actionable Steps for Consumers
For those concerned about lead exposure from snacks like Siete chips, here are some practical steps:
- Diversify your snack options. Instead of relying heavily on one type of snack, especially if it uses a potentially high-risk ingredient like cassava, rotate your choices. Consider other grain-free alternatives like potato chips (though some Siete potato chip flavors have been flagged) or rice crackers.
- Explore corn-based alternatives. Siete's own Maiz Totopos corn chips may be a suitable alternative for some, as corn typically carries a lower risk for lead contamination.
- Prioritize a balanced diet. Since lead exposure is cumulative, reducing your intake from any single source is beneficial. A balanced diet rich in a variety of vegetables, fruits, and grains will naturally help mitigate risk from one food category. Ensure your diet includes foods rich in calcium and iron, which can help inhibit lead absorption in the body.
- Stay informed. Follow updates from trusted sources like Consumer Reports and FDA advisories. Companies also often post information regarding product safety on their websites.
- Contact the company. If you have specific concerns about a product or batch, reaching out to the company directly for recent testing data is a valid option. Siete Foods, for example, has provided statements regarding their testing protocols.
Conclusion: Navigating the Complexities of Food Safety
Are Siete chips high in lead? The answer is nuanced, depending on the specific product and independent testing results. While Siete Foods affirms its rigorous testing and adherence to safety standards, independent reports have found detectable and, in some cases, concerning lead levels in several cassava-based products, including certain Siete chips. The broader issue highlights the challenges of sourcing and processing root vegetables like cassava, which can naturally absorb heavy metals from the soil. For health-conscious consumers, staying informed, diversifying snack choices, and weighing the risks associated with different ingredients is crucial. By examining reliable third-party testing and understanding the source of ingredients, you can make more confident decisions about your food choices.
Further Reading
For more in-depth information on food contaminant testing, you can refer to the CDC's guidelines on heavy metals in consumer products.
