*A recent study funded by the Florida Department of Health has raised concerns over arsenic levels in popular candies, warning that consuming more than small amounts could increase risks of cancer, diabetes, or heart disease.
According to Real Simple, researchers tested a wide variety of sweets and calculated the safe annual consumption limits for children and adults. Some candies contained arsenic levels as high as 570 parts per billion (ppb). By comparison, the EPA’s safe limit for arsenic in drinking water is just 10 ppb. A FDA Total Diet Study also found arsenic in 41.67% of candy products assessed, highlighting the widespread nature of the issue.
The study revealed strict consumption limits for many treats. For example: Black Forest Gummy Bears contained 370 ppb, with safe consumption capped at 16 pieces per year for children and 40 for adults. Laffy Taffy Banana Candy measured 480 ppb—just 4 pieces for children and 9.6 for adults per year. Other high-arsenic candies included Nerds Gummy Cluster (500 ppb), Sour Patch Kids (470 ppb), and Tootsie Roll Fruit Chew Lime (570 ppb). Even everyday chocolates like Kit Kats and 3 Musketeers contained arsenic, though at lower levels.
Experts caution that mixing multiple candies can push arsenic intake above safe limits, meaning eating several types in a year may increase health risks.
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Fortunately, many popular candies were found to have little or no arsenic. These include organic Black Forest Gummy Bears, Hershey’s milk chocolate, M&Ms, Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups, Twix, Milky Ways, and products from Unreal and Yum Earth.
Arsenic is a naturally occurring mineral found in soil, water, and air, and it appears in certain foods, including rice, seafood, seaweed, apple juice, mushrooms, and poultry. While the form of arsenic in seafood is mostly organic and less harmful, FDA guidelines are still being developed to help reduce arsenic exposure, particularly for infants and young children.
Until those guidelines are finalized, consumers may want to choose candies with lower arsenic levels to enjoy a safer treat.
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