Understanding Heavy Metals in Chocolate: Beyond Hershey's Dark Chocolate
Recent revelations regarding heavy metals in dark chocolate have caused understandable concern among consumers. The most prominent findings came from a 2022 investigation by Consumer Reports (CR), which detected lead and cadmium in numerous dark chocolate bars, including those from Hershey's. Specifically, tests found that Hershey's Special Dark Mildly Sweet Chocolate bar exceeded California's maximum allowable dose level (MADL) for lead. Additionally, other Hershey-owned dark chocolate products, such as Lily's Extremely Dark Chocolate, also registered concerning levels of both lead and cadmium. These findings highlight a broader issue within the cocoa industry, not just limited to one manufacturer. The presence of these heavy metals is influenced by several factors, including the cocoa's origin and processing methods.
The Source of Heavy Metal Contamination
Heavy metals like lead and cadmium are naturally occurring elements found in the earth's crust and soil. They enter the cocoa bean supply chain through distinct pathways:
- Cadmium: This heavy metal is absorbed by the cocoa plant through its roots from the soil as it grows. Therefore, the cadmium level is linked to the geography of the cocoa-growing region, with some areas, particularly in Central and South America, having naturally higher levels.
- Lead: Unlike cadmium, lead contamination primarily occurs after the cocoa beans are harvested. It is believed to be introduced during the fermentation and drying process. If beans are left to dry on the ground or near roadways, they can be exposed to contaminated soil particles and environmental dust from industrial pollution or vehicle exhausts.
Comparing Brands and Heavy Metal Levels
Consumer Reports' testing highlighted significant variations in heavy metal content across different chocolate brands. While some Hershey's dark chocolate products contained elevated levels, other brands showed different profiles of contamination. Consumers can use this information to make more informed choices, especially those with higher exposure risk, such as children and pregnant individuals.
| Chocolate Brand & Product | Lead Level (as % of California MADL) | Cadmium Level (as % of California MADL) |
|---|---|---|
| Hershey's Special Dark Mildly Sweet Chocolate | 265% | 30% |
| Lily's Extra Dark Chocolate 70% Cocoa | 144% | 42% |
| Lily's Extreme Dark Chocolate 85% Cocoa | 143% | 101% |
| Ghirardelli Intense Dark Chocolate 86% Cacao | 36% | 39% |
| Taza Chocolate Organic Deliciously Dark Chocolate 70% Cacao | 33% | 74% |
| Mast Organic Dark Chocolate 80% Cocoa | 14% | 40% |
Table based on 2022 Consumer Reports data. Note that California's MADL standards are stricter than most other regulatory guidelines.
Mitigating Risk: How to Enjoy Chocolate Safely
For most adults, enjoying dark chocolate in moderation is considered safe, but limiting exposure is a prudent strategy. The key is to consume a varied diet and be mindful of total intake from all sources. Here are some actionable steps for consumers:
- Consume in Moderation: Heavy metals accumulate in the body over time. Limiting dark chocolate consumption to small, occasional servings helps reduce total exposure.
- Vary Your Diet: Heavy metals exist in many foods besides chocolate, including root vegetables like carrots and leafy greens like spinach. A diverse diet ensures you aren't over-relying on a single food source that might be higher in certain contaminants.
- Choose Lower-Cacao Options: Since heavy metals are concentrated in the cocoa solids, opting for dark chocolates with a lower cacao percentage (e.g., 65% instead of 85%) or choosing milk chocolate can reduce heavy metal intake.
- Select Lower-Level Brands: As the CR data shows, some brands consistently test lower for heavy metals. Consumers can choose brands like Ghirardelli or Taza from the CR findings to minimize risk.
- Support Transparent Sourcing: Some artisan and direct-trade chocolate producers offer greater transparency and actively test for heavy metals, working with farmers to mitigate contamination.
Corporate and Regulatory Responses
Following the CR report and subsequent lawsuits, The Hershey Company has publicly stated that it is investigating ways to reduce lead and cadmium levels in its products. A company spokesperson told Reuters that the manufacturing and cleaning process for cocoa beans removes the “vast majority” of heavy metals but that they are evaluating if more can be removed. Hershey's and the broader industry, represented by the National Confectioners Association (NCA), have emphasized that trace amounts occur naturally and that their products comply with applicable laws. The difference in opinion centers on whether simply complying with existing regulations is sufficient, especially given concerns raised by more protective standards like California's Proposition 65. Consumer advocacy groups continue to pressure the industry for greater transparency and more proactive mitigation strategies. The FDA is also working on setting action levels for heavy metals in certain foods, including baby foods, and may expand this scope in the future.
Conclusion
The presence of lead in Hershey's dark chocolate, and other brands, is a verified issue documented by third-party testing from Consumer Reports. While the levels are considered low and unlikely to cause immediate harm for most adults consuming in moderation, they present a risk for vulnerable populations and frequent consumers due to accumulation over time. The contamination stems from both natural soil absorption (cadmium) and post-harvest handling (lead). Consumers can mitigate their risk by choosing products with lower heavy metal concentrations, eating chocolate in moderation, and diversifying their diet. Furthermore, supporting companies with transparent sourcing and better processing practices encourages industry-wide improvements. While the situation highlights the complexity of food safety in a global supply chain, it also empowers consumers to make choices that align with their health concerns.
