Our producer tests all raw materials for heavy metals before they are imported into the EU, where the cacao is processed, and our IxCacao Drops are made. By law, all ingredients must comply with European regulations for heavy metals, including cadmium and lead, before they can be used in food production.

From what we understand, lead is not typically present in cacao at its origin. Studies have shown that cacao beans and nibs naturally contain very low levels of lead. In some cases where higher levels have been detected in finished chocolate products, research suggests this may occur later in the supply chain — during transport, storage, processing, or manufacturing. Historically, environmental sources such as leaded petrol residues have also been considered a possible contributor to surface contamination, as referenced in this article: https://damecacao.com/lead-in-chocolate

Cadmium, on the other hand, can occur naturally in cacao because the tree absorbs it from the soil. Levels vary depending on where the cacao is grown and tend to be higher in certain volcanic or mineral-rich regions of Latin America. Some areas of Peru, Ecuador and Colombia are known to have higher cadmium levels, whereas the Dominican Republic — the origin of the cacao used in our drops — is generally considered a lower-risk growing region.

The European Union has established strict maximum limits for cadmium and lead in chocolate products. All raw materials used in our IxCacao Drops are tested and must meet these EU standards before being imported and processed.

The certificate of analysis we receive for cacao focuses on contaminants known to be relevant to this ingredient. Lead is not typically tested at this stage because it is generally not considered an issue at the raw cacao level.

We hope this helps clarify things. Please feel free to reach out if you have any other questions.