Heavy Metal Contamination in Chocolates and Candies: Sources, Health Risks, and Analytical Insights

The presence of heavy metals in chocolates and candies poses growing public health concerns, particularly for children who are frequent consumers. This review consolidates evidence on the occurrence, sources, toxicological impacts, and analytical monitoring of metals, including Pb, Cd, Hg, As, Cr, Ni, and Al, in confectionery products. These metals originate from multiple pathways, including environmental contamination of raw materials, processing equipment, coloring agents, and metallic packaging. Prolonged exposure, even at low concentrations, has been associated with neurotoxicity, nephrotoxicity, carcinogenicity, and developmental impairments. Comparative evaluation highlights Pb and Cd as the most prevalent contaminants, with Cd bioaccumulating in the kidneys and Pb causing irreversible neurological damage in children. Modern spectroscopic and chromatographic methods, including ICP‐MS, TXRF, and AAS, provide sensitive detection and quantification of metals, supporting regulatory compliance. However, disparities between permissible limits and detected concentrations in several studies emphasize weak enforcement and the need for standardized global monitoring protocols. The review also identifies major research gaps, limited region‐specific exposure data, inadequate assessment of combined metal toxicity, and a lack of longitudinal studies linking chronic exposure to contaminated confectionery and health outcomes. Strengthening analytical surveillance, adopting sustainable raw materials, and implementing safer packaging alternatives are essential to minimize heavy metal exposure and safeguarding consumer health.