Is It Safe to Eat Trader Joe's Dark Chocolate and Other Brands Despite Lead Presence?

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In late 2022, a Consumer Reports study revealed that dark chocolate from Trader Joe's and several other brands, such as Dove, Lindt, and Hershey's, contained unsafe levels of lead and cadmium. While some brands had one of the contaminants, Trader Joe’s Dark Chocolate Lover's Chocolate 85% Cacao had notably high levels of both. If you've already eaten this chocolate, there's no need to panic, but the study may help you make better choices in future purchases. According to licensed dietitian Lindley Wells, CNS, LDN, “Unfortunately, exposure to lead and cadmium through food is difficult to avoid completely.” These metals commonly enter the human body through food grown in contaminated soil or exposed to polluted water. Foods such as baby food, chocolate, dietary supplements, protein powders, and fruit juices have been found to have higher levels of these metals.

So why are these chemicals concerning? “Cadmium is harmful to our kidneys and can disrupt the minerals in our bones,” Wells explains about the toxin, which is also classified as a carcinogen. “Lead can damage all our organs, but it particularly affects the brain. Prolonged exposure to elevated levels of lead can harm memory, attention, and the ability to

learn and focus,” she adds. The good news is that if you're worried about excessive exposure, a simple blood test at your doctor's office can check your levels, and your healthcare provider can evaluate the results to ensure they're within a safe range. Most individuals have some trace of lead and cadmium in their body, but this typically isn't a cause for serious concern.

Is Dark Chocolate Beneficial for You?

Dark chocolate is widely recognized in the sweet tooth community for its health benefits, thanks to cocoa’s rich supply of antioxidants like catechin, epicatechin, and procyanidins. “Epicatechin, in particular, offers a significant boost to vascular health, along with anti-inflammatory properties,” explains Wells. “Moreover, cocoa’s antioxidants can influence insulin resistance and lower the likelihood of developing diabetes. Cocoa also provides protection to our skin against UV radiation, and research suggests that consuming it can enhance brain function and mood.”

Rather than giving up dark chocolate completely, it’s crucial to make more informed choices to avoid potentially harmful chocolate, which could counteract all the positive effects of cocoa. Consumers must also be cautious about the health halo of dark chocolate—eating it because you believe it’s healthy—while overlooking sugar content and possible contaminants. For a more balanced snack, try pairing dark chocolate with antioxidant-rich foods like pecans, blueberries, strawberries, and raspberries, which provide additional vitamins and minerals.

How to Choose the Right Dark Chocolate 

When shopping for dark chocolate, Wells advises opting for organic chocolate bars with minimal ingredients. While 70% cacao or higher is the recommended level for enjoying dark chocolate’s health benefits, occasionally choosing chocolates with lower cacao content or milk chocolate can help reduce exposure to toxins. Wells also supports the findings from Consumer Reports, which suggest that dark chocolate should be considered a treat, not a daily indulgence. Aim for around one ounce of chocolate a few times a week rather than daily. To minimize exposure to lead and cadmium, Consumer Reports recommends these top five options: Mast Organic Dark Chocolate (80% Cocoa) Taza Chocolate Organic Deliciously Dark Chocolate (70% Cacao) Ghirardelli Intense Dark Chocolate (86% Cacao) Ghirardelli Intense Dark Chocolate Twilight Delight (72% Cacao) Valrhona Abinao Dark Chocolate (85% Cacao)

These five low-toxin bars demonstrate that it's possible to create dark chocolate without harmful contaminants. While Trader Joe’s chocolate remains available, it might be wise to make more informed choices about the types of dark chocolate you buy and consume.