Share this @internewscast.com

With Halloween just around the corner, Consumer Reports has some scary news to relay about many treats typically found in trick-or-treat bags, as well as in the kitchen cupboard. 

From cocoa powder to brownie mixes, the consumer advocacy group found “concerning” levels of lead or cadmium in a third of the chocolate products it tested. Consumer Report coupled its report with a call on Hershey Co., the largest purveyor of chocolate in the U.S., to step up its efforts to reduce the level of toxic metals in its chocolate.

“Our tests have found that other brands have succeeded in producing chocolate products with lower levels of heavy metals that are safer for consumers,” Brian Ronholm, CR’s director of food policy, said in a statement on Consumer Reports’ findings. “As a leading and popular brand, it’s time for Hershey’s to make a firm, time-bound commitment to get dangerous levels of heavy metals out of its chocolate products.”  

Following up on findings of potentially dangerous amounts of heavy metals in some brands of dark chocolate last last year, scientists at the nonprofit advocacy organization ran new tests on other kinds of chocolates and food items made with the ingredient. The products tested included dark chocolate bars, milk chocolate bars, cocoa powder, chocolate chips, and mixes for hot cocoa, brownies and chocolate cake.

Detectable amounts of lead and cadmium were detected in all 48 products tested, and 16 contained concerning levels for one of both of the heavy metals, according to the results released on Wednesday.


The bittersweet reality behind chocolate

09:08

Long-term exposure to even small amounts of heavy metals can result in health problems such as brain development in young children, according to health experts.

How best to reduce heavy metals in chocolate is an industrywide question pertinent to all brands, not just Hershey, a spokesperson for the candy maker told CBS MoneyWatch in an email, while deferring further comment to the National Confectioners Association.

“Chocolate and cocoa are safe to eat and can be enjoyed as treats as they have been for centuries. Food safety and product quality remain our highest priorities and we remain dedicated to being transparent and socially responsible,” the trade group said in an emailed statement.

Share this @internewscast.com
You May Also Like

I consumed a trendy “health” food daily to shed pounds, but it turned out to be toxic.

Nasha Montgomery was looking to lose weight and began following a healthy diet,…

A Gut Specialist Alerts to a ‘Timebomb’ Cancer Risk Affecting Millions, and Shares a Simple Prevention Method

A gut health doctor has revealed a surprising cause of a deadly cancer on…

This popular morning beverage might not be as gut-friendly as you think – and it’s not coffee

Brits are being urged by health experts to reconsider their breakfast drink…

I Experience Unexplained Heart Palpitations Despite Normal ECG Results – What Could Be the Cause? Dr. Ellie Explains

I have had heart palpitations on and off for some time. I’ve…

5 Common Medications That Require Urgent Action to Prevent Heatwave Issues

An alert has been issued to anyone who takes five different kinds…

I Mistook My Tiredness for Normal Fatigue—Doctors Uncovered a Life-Threatening Heart Condition

At just 26, Rachel Freedman had the stamina of someone in their…

Top 30 Sleep Habits of Brits Unveiled – from Avoiding Cheese to Counting Sheep

Brits are going to great lengths for a blissful night’s slumber, from…

Leading dermatologist issues urgent warning for those with acne: Popular treatment may cause permanent scarring

Popping an unsightly pimple before a big social event or work presentation may…

Travelers Advised to Take This Key Step Immediately Upon Hotel Check-In

Nothing beats some time away in another country, having a break from…

“Stay Cool Tonight: Enhance Your Fan’s Performance in 3 Easy Steps”

With temperatures set to be a stuffy 20C tonight for large parts…

How to Identify If a Brown Skin Patch is Concerning and When to Consult a Doctor – Insights from Skin Specialist Aenone Harper-Machin

As the human body’s largest organ, it’s no surprise that an endless…