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Arsenic Found in Popular Candies: Florida Study Raises Concerns
1 Feb
Summary
- Arsenic detected in 28 of 46 tested candy products in Florida.
- Florida's study used EPA Method 6010D for arsenic testing.
- Candy makers dispute findings, citing different federal standards.
A recent study by the Florida Department of Health has revealed the presence of arsenic in 28 out of 46 popular candy products tested. These findings were presented as part of the Healthy Florida First initiative, aiming to increase transparency regarding the safety of products marketed to children. Officials emphasized that potential health risks are contingent upon the frequency, duration, and overall exposure to arsenic.
The methodology involved analyzing candy samples using EPA Method 6010D. While the method detects total arsenic, it does not differentiate between organic and inorganic forms. The department calculated hypothetical 'safe' consumption amounts, using children as the benchmark due to their lower body weight and higher relative exposure.
The National Confectioners Association has contested these results, asserting that the state's conclusions are misguided and that chocolate and candy are safe for consumption. The association criticized Florida's reliance on benchmarks that diverge from current federal regulatory standards and scientific consensus. They pointed to the FDA's 'Closer to Zero' initiative as demonstrating significantly lower arsenic levels.
