As Reports Surface Around Heavy Metals, Is It Safe to Eat Vegan Chocolate?

Consumer Reports has found high levels of heavy metals such as lead and cadmium in a third of chocolate products, including dark chocolate popular among vegans. The heavy metals are present in the soil of cocoa plantations, making it difficult for manufacturers to ensure their products are completely heavy metal-free. Exposure to heavy metals can be harmful, especially for pregnant people and children, potentially causing developmental delays and learning problems.

Despite the concerning findings, it is not necessary to stop eating chocolate altogether. Some dark chocolate bars comply with California's allowable dose limits for heavy metals, and the As You Sow organization provides a list of chocolate bars that meet these limits. While milk chocolate generally has lower levels of heavy metals than dark chocolate, vegan milk chocolate options were not tested. It is recommended to choose chocolates with lower heavy metal concentrations and consume them in moderation, especially for pregnant people and children.