Heavy metal analysis of dark chocolate and cocoa products in the USA

the relationship between product characteristics and heavy metal contamination levels. The study found that from 2014 to 2022, 43% of tested products exceeded the Prop 65 maximum allowable dose levels for lead, while 35% exceeded for cadmium, and none exceeded for arsenic. Despite these findings, 97.2% of the products were below the FDA's interim reference limits for lead. The median concentrations of heavy metals were lower than the Prop 65 thresholds, suggesting that while many products showed contamination, the average consumer risk from a single serving is low. However, regular consumption or multiple servings could lead to exceeding safe exposure levels. Notably, organic products were more likely to have higher levels of lead and cadmium. The study highlights the ongoing issue of heavy metal contamination in cocoa products, emphasizing the need for continued monitoring and consumer awareness regarding potential health risks associated with heavy metal exposure from food sources. The findings contribute to the understanding of heavy metal prevalence in food products and the implications for public health, particularly for sensitive populations.