Are There Heavy Metals in Milk Chocolate?
The cocoa solids that are responsible for cadmium and lead in dark chocolate are present in milk chocolate, too, but often in much lower quantities
When compared with milk chocolate, dark chocolate is typically lower in sugar and richer in flavonols—antioxidants that help protect the heart and brain—two reasons why dark chocolate has often been considered a healthier choice.
But as Consumer Reports’ recent investigation into dark chocolate showed, many dark chocolate bars contain the heavy metals cadmium and lead, often at levels that could eventually pose health risks if these products are consumed regularly.
To reduce your exposure to heavy metals in dark chocolate, CR’s experts and others we consulted suggested limiting dark chocolate consumption—only eating a serving of an ounce or so a few times a week—and occasionally substituting milk chocolate for dark chocolate.
Heavy metals should be less of a problem in milk chocolate.