Divine Aleru is an accomplished biochemist and researcher with a specialized background in environmental toxicology, focusing on the impacts of heavy metals on human health. With deep-rooted expertise in microbiome signatures analysis, Divine seamlessly blends rigorous scientific training with her passion for deciphering the intricate relationships between environmental exposures and the human microbiome. Her career is distinguished by a commitment to advancing integrative health interventions, leveraging cutting-edge microbiome research to illuminate how toxic metals shape biological systems. Driven by curiosity and innovation, Divine is dedicated to translating complex environmental findings into actionable insights that improve individual and public health outcomes. 
Divine Aleru is an accomplished biochemist and researcher with a specialized background in environmental toxicology, focusing on the impacts of heavy metals on human health. With deep-rooted expertise in microbiome signatures analysis, Divine seamlessly blends rigorous scientific training with her passion for deciphering the intricate relationships between environmental exposures and the human microbiome. Her career is distinguished by a commitment to advancing integrative health interventions, leveraging cutting-edge microbiome research to illuminate how toxic metals shape biological systems. Driven by curiosity and innovation, Divine is dedicated to translating complex environmental findings into actionable insights that improve individual and public health outcomes. What was issued?
A comprehensive study was conducted on the presence of heavy metals and essential elements in chocolates, with a focus on health risk assessment from chocolate consumption. The study assessed 155 chocolate samples from various brands and regions, evaluating their concentration of elements such as cadmium (Cd), lead (Pb), arsenic (As), nickel (Ni), uranium (U), and essential elements like magnesium (Mg), calcium (Ca), and zinc (Zn). The study also calculated hazard quotients (HQ) and hazard indices (HI) to understand the potential non-carcinogenic risks of these contaminants to consumers, particularly children. The findings inform both consumers and food manufacturers, promoting safer choices regarding cacao origins and chocolate products.
Who is affected?
The study’s findings affect a wide range of stakeholders, including consumers, especially children who are more vulnerable to the toxic effects of heavy metals, chocolate manufacturers, and regulatory agencies. Consumers are directly impacted by the presence of harmful metals in chocolate, while manufacturers must be aware of the health implications and adjust their sourcing practices accordingly. Regulatory bodies may use these findings to adjust food safety standards and establish limits for contaminants in chocolate products.
Most important findings
The study revealed that dark chocolates, particularly those with high cacao content, contained varying levels of toxic metals such as cadmium, lead, and nickel. Some chocolate samples, especially those from regions like Central and South America, exhibited higher levels of cadmium. The calculated hazard quotients for cadmium exceeded safe limits in a few dark chocolate samples, especially for children. However, for adults, the levels of toxic metals in chocolate posed minimal risk. Moreover, essential elements like magnesium, calcium, and zinc in chocolate played a positive role by contributing to the daily recommended intake (DRI) for children and adults. This study emphasizes the need for regular monitoring of metal levels in chocolate products and raises awareness about sourcing cacao from regions with lower contamination levels.
Key implications
The findings highlight significant health risks posed by cadmium and other toxic metals in chocolate, particularly for children. Manufacturers must adopt practices that reduce contamination, such as sourcing cacao from regions with lower heavy metal levels. Additionally, consumers should be informed about potential risks, especially when consuming dark chocolate regularly. Regulatory agencies may need to revise existing limits for heavy metals in chocolates and recommend lower thresholds for vulnerable populations like children. The results also suggest that future regulations could focus on reducing cadmium exposure through better agricultural practices and post-harvest handling in cacao production.
Citation
Godebo, T. R., Stoner, H., Kodsup, P., Bases, B., Marzoni, S., Weil, J., Frey, M., Daley, P., Earnhart, A., Ellias, G., Friedman, T., Rajan, S., Murphy, N., & Miller, S. (2024). Occurrence of heavy metals coupled with elevated levels of essential elements in chocolates: Health risk assessment. Food Research International, 187, 114360. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.foodres.2024.114360
Cadmium is a persistent heavy metal that accumulates in kidneys and bones. Dietary sources include cereals, cocoa, shellfish and vegetables, while smokers and industrial workers receive higher exposures. Studies link cadmium to kidney dysfunction, bone fractures and cancer.
Lead is a neurotoxic heavy metal with no safe exposure level. It contaminates food, consumer goods and drinking water, causing cognitive deficits, birth defects and cardiovascular disease. HMTC’s rigorous lead testing applies ALARA principles to protect infants and consumers and to prepare brands for tightening regulations.
Nickel is a widely used transition metal found in alloys, batteries, and consumer products that also contaminates food and water. High exposure is linked to allergic contact dermatitis, organ toxicity, and developmental effects, with children often exceeding EFSA’s tolerable daily intake of 3 μg/kg bw. Emerging evidence shows nickel crosses the placenta, elevating risks of preterm birth and congenital heart defects, underscoring HMTC’s stricter limits to safeguard vulnerable populations.
