Heavy Metal Findings in Hershey's Products
Recent investigations, most notably by Consumer Reports, have brought to light the issue of heavy metal contamination in certain chocolate products, including some from Hershey's. While all tested products contained detectable amounts of lead and cadmium, the levels varied significantly depending on the product type. The findings raised concerns, particularly regarding dark chocolate and cocoa powder, which contain higher concentrations of cocoa solids where these metals tend to accumulate.
In 2022, Consumer Reports' initial dark chocolate tests identified concerning levels of lead in some products, including Hershey's Special Dark Mildly Sweet Chocolate. A follow-up investigation in 2023 tested various cocoa-containing foods, revealing concerning lead levels in Hershey's Cocoa Naturally Unsweetened 100% Cacao and the Hershey's milk chocolate bar. This continuous testing has shown the persistence of this issue across different product categories.
How Lead and Cadmium Enter Chocolate
Understanding how these heavy metals contaminate chocolate is key to grasping the issue. Experts have identified different pathways for lead and cadmium contamination.
- Cadmium: This heavy metal is absorbed by the cacao plant directly from the soil through its roots. Cadmium levels in the soil can be naturally high, especially in regions with volcanic soil, like some parts of Central and South America where cacao is grown. The cadmium then accumulates in the cocoa beans as the tree matures.
- Lead: Lead contamination primarily occurs after the cocoa beans have been harvested. During fermentation and sun-drying, the wet, sticky beans can come into contact with lead-contaminated soil or dust from the surrounding environment. Particles from vehicle exhaust and old industrial emissions can also settle on the beans, leading to surface-level contamination.
These different sources mean that chocolate manufacturers must implement different strategies to minimize each type of metal. For lead, improvements in post-harvest handling and drying techniques are crucial, such as using elevated drying tables or protective covers. For cadmium, a more complex issue, solutions involve sourcing beans from areas with lower soil cadmium levels, blending beans from different regions, or implementing long-term solutions like breeding plants that absorb less of the metal.
Comparing Dark Chocolate vs. Milk Chocolate Contamination
The most prominent distinction in heavy metal levels is between dark and milk chocolate. The key factor is the concentration of cocoa solids, as this is where lead and cadmium are found.
| Feature | Dark Chocolate | Milk Chocolate |
|---|---|---|
| Cocoa Solids Content | Higher (typically 65% or more) | Lower |
| Heavy Metal Levels | Generally higher in both lead and cadmium | Generally lower |
| Primary Metal Concern | Risk of elevated lead and cadmium | Detectable levels, but lower risk |
| Healthier Reputability | Often marketed as healthier due to flavanols | Contains more sugar and less cocoa solids |
| CR Test Results | Multiple Hershey's dark chocolate products found high in lead | Hershey's milk chocolate bar had the most lead among tested milk chocolates but was within CR's limit |
The Industry's Response and Consumer Action
In response to public scrutiny and class-action lawsuits, Hershey has acknowledged the presence of heavy metals, stating that they occur naturally in the environment. Hershey's CFO has also stated that the company is looking for ways to reduce these trace amounts and that the manufacturing and cleaning process already removes a significant portion. However, Consumer Reports and other advocacy groups have pressed for more concrete commitments and timelines from the company.
For consumers, it is important to remember that heavy metal exposure comes from a variety of sources, and chocolate is just one of them. While regulatory standards for heavy metals in food are debated, consistent, long-term exposure is the primary concern, especially for vulnerable populations like children and pregnant women. Therefore, a balanced and varied diet is a good approach to minimize overall risk. Consumers can also choose brands with lower heavy metal levels, opt for chocolate with a lower cacao percentage, and treat chocolate as an occasional indulgence rather than a health food.
Conclusion
The question of whether there is lead in Hershey's chocolate has been answered definitively by recent third-party testing. Yes, some products, particularly dark chocolate and cocoa powder, contain detectable levels of lead and cadmium. While Hershey's maintains that these are trace amounts and occur naturally, consumer advocacy groups cite test results that exceed California's maximum allowable dose levels. The presence of these heavy metals is linked to both environmental factors in cacao farming and post-harvest processing techniques. For consumers, staying informed about product test results and consuming chocolate in moderation are the best strategies for mitigating risk.
How to Minimize Exposure
- Choose Wisely: Some brands consistently test lower for heavy metals. You can also opt for chocolates with a lower cacao percentage, as they generally contain fewer cocoa solids.
- Moderate Consumption: Treat dark chocolate as an occasional indulgence rather than a daily health food.
- Diversify Your Diet: Heavy metals exist in many foods. Eating a varied diet helps to reduce reliance on any single source of nutrients and minimizes cumulative exposure.
- Support Corporate Change: Consider signing petitions or supporting organizations like Consumer Reports that are pushing chocolate companies to find safer sourcing and processing methods.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it safe to eat Hershey's chocolate?
It is generally considered safe for healthy adults to consume Hershey's chocolate in moderation. The risk comes from consistent, high-level exposure over time, and a single serving is unlikely to cause harm. However, vulnerable groups like children and pregnant women should be more cautious.
Which Hershey's products were found to have concerning lead levels?
Based on Consumer Reports' findings, products with concerning lead levels include Hershey's Special Dark Mildly Sweet Chocolate, Hershey's Cocoa Naturally Unsweetened 100% Cacao, and certain products under the Hershey-owned Lily's brand.
Do all brands of chocolate contain lead and cadmium?
Almost all chocolate products contain detectable amounts of lead and cadmium, though levels vary significantly by brand and product type. Some brands consistently test lower than others.
Is dark chocolate or milk chocolate more contaminated with heavy metals?
Dark chocolate generally has higher levels of lead and cadmium than milk chocolate because it contains a higher concentration of cocoa solids, where the heavy metals accumulate.
How can I reduce my exposure to heavy metals from chocolate?
You can minimize exposure by consuming chocolate in moderation, choosing products with a lower cacao percentage, and looking for brands that consistently report lower heavy metal levels.
Why are heavy metals in chocolate in the first place?
Lead primarily contaminates cacao beans after harvest during the drying process, while cadmium is absorbed by the cacao plant directly from the soil. These metals are not intentionally added.
Is organic chocolate safer from heavy metals?
No, organic certification does not guarantee lower levels of heavy metals. The source of contamination is often the soil and post-harvest handling, which are not regulated by organic standards.
Have there been lawsuits against Hershey's regarding this issue?
Yes, several class-action lawsuits have been filed against Hershey's and other chocolate manufacturers following reports of high heavy metal levels.
Has the FDA set limits for lead and cadmium in chocolate?
Currently, there are no specific federal limits for lead and cadmium in chocolate, though regulatory standards exist for certain baby foods. Consumer Reports and others have called on the FDA to take action.
Is a small amount of heavy metal exposure dangerous?
The health risk from heavy metals is primarily related to cumulative exposure over time, not a single instance. Long-term exposure, even to small amounts, can have harmful effects, particularly for children.
