The Hidden Threat in Our Food

The Hidden Threat in Our Food: Heavy Metal Contamination and What Florida’s Recent Findings Reveal

In early 2026, the State of Florida shocked people who monitor public health with the release of a food safety report from its Healthy Florida First initiative showing that arsenic was detectable in 28 out of 46 popular candy products tested, including well-known brands and varieties many families give their children each year.

Read the article here https://exposingfoodtoxins.com/

This has reignited concern about heavy metal contamination in the food supply, a problem that extends far beyond sweets and affects staples such as chocolate, rice, seafood, and even poultry — with serious implications for long-term health.

What Florida Found: Arsenic in Popular Candy

The Florida Department of Health tested products from 10 companies and found arsenic — a toxic heavy metal — in more than half of the candies analyzed. Arsenic concentrations in some products reached levels that, according to the state’s risk model, would limit “safe” yearly consumption to only a few pieces for children.

State health officials emphasized that the testing was intended to increase transparency around food contaminants and empower families to make informed choices.

Industry groups responded by questioning the methodology and noted that the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) already monitor heavy metals under its Closer to Zero. This controversy highlights the need for greater public awareness about these hidden contaminants.

Heavy Metals in Chocolate and Cocoa

Many of my patients confess that they indulge in dark chocolate as a treat ever since learning that cocoa offers antioxidants and other healthy polyphenolic compounds.

However, research now shows that cocoa should be consumed in controlled amounts. Peer-reviewed research published in Food Research International analyzed 155 chocolate products sold in the U.S. and found a range of heavy metals — including arsenic, cadmium, and lead — present in measurable concentrations tied to the cacao content of the products.

Some chocolates demonstrated potential risks, particularly for children (based on hazard indices >1), suggesting that regular consumption could contribute to cumulative toxic exposure. Adults that are trying to heal a chronic condition or improve cognition, should be aware of the levels of heavy metals such as lead and cadmium in their favorite chocolate products.

Independent investigations of some chocolate and cocoa products have also flagged lead and cadmium in dozens of dark chocolate products, with many exceeding California’s strict allowable limits, although arsenic occasionally remains below formal thresholds. There are chocolate products that contain lower levels of heavy metals and that are safer to eat. You can learn about products that have been tested online.

How Heavy Metal Levels Compare Across Foods

Rice

Rice, especially brown rice , is known to absorb arsenic from soil and water more than most cereals. PubMed-indexed reviews indicate rice frequently has higher concentrations of inorganic arsenic, the more toxic form linked to cancer and cardiovascular disease, than many other foods.

Because rice is a staple in many diets, this exposure can add up over time, especially for infants and young children whose diets rely heavily on rice and rice-based products.

Seafood

Seafood often contains arsenic, mercury, cadmium, and lead, with levels varying by species and environment. While much of the arsenic in fish is in an organic form (arsenobetaine) that is considered less toxic, methylmercury — particularly in large predatory fish — is a major concern because it bioaccumulates and affects the nervous system.

Poultry and Meat

Research shows poultry can also bioaccumulate heavy metals like arsenic, lead, and cadmium through environmental exposure — though fewer studies have focused on meat compared to plant-derived staples or seafood. Chronic low-level exposure has been associated with metabolic and organ dysfunction.

Other Foods

Broad reviews of food contamination document that heavy metals like arsenic, cadmium, and lead are ubiquitous — found in cereals, vegetables, fruits, and even dairy — due to environmental and industrial sources.

Why This Matters: Health Risks of Heavy Metals

Heavy metals are persistent in the environment and accumulate in the body over time. Chronic exposure — even at low levels — is associated with numerous health outcomes:

Arsenic: Linked to skin disorders, cancers (lung, bladder), cardiovascular disease, and developmental effects in children.

Lead: No safe blood level has been identified; exposure can impair neurological development and kidney function.

Cadmium: Associated with kidney damage, bone demineralization, and possible carcinogenic effects.

Mercury: Particularly methylmercury in fish, affects the central nervous system and is dangerous for fetal brain development. Mercury toxicity can also affect energy production in the body resulting in fatigue and poor cognition.

Children, pregnant individuals, and individuals with high dietary intake of certain foods are most vulnerable.

What You Can Do

Because heavy metals are pervasive in the environment and end up in many foods, complete avoidance isn’t realistic. However, consumers can reduce cumulative exposure:

• Diversify your diet: Don’t rely heavily on a single food that tends to accumulate metals (like rice or certain chocolate with high cacao content).
• Follow guidance for sensitive populations: Special attention is warranted for infants and pregnant people.
• Preparation methods: Cooking techniques (e.g., rinsing rice or soaking grains) can reduce some heavy metal content.

A Few Practical Tips to Avoid Toxic Metals in Food

Support liver health: The liver is central to detoxification. Foods that support liver enzymes include garlic, turmeric, and cruciferous vegetables.

Stay well hydrated: Adequate water supports kidney filtration and toxin elimination.

Diversify your diet: Eating a wide variety of whole foods helps minimize reliance on any one source that could contain metals. Rotate foods in and out of your diet instead of eating the same foods daily.

Avoid Large Fish that are high in Mercury: Large predatory fish tend to accumulate more toxins in their flesh from eating smaller fish. It’s a good rule to avoid Bigeye tuna, Tilefish, Swordfish, Orange roughy,Shark, King mackerel and Marlin most of the time.

Natural Foods and Supplements That May Help Reduce Toxic Heavy Metals

While the primary goal should always be reducing exposure to heavy metals (e.g., from contaminated candy, chocolate, rice, seafood, and other sources), certain foods and nutrients have been studied for their potential to support the body’s natural detoxification systems and help bind or mitigate heavy metals. These aren’t magic bullets, but when paired with a healthy diet they may bolster internal defenses against accumulated toxins.

1. Cilantro (Coriandrum sativum)

Cilantro — the fresh, leafy herb used in many cuisines — has been studied for its ability to bind to metal ions like mercury, lead, and cadmium in the body and facilitate their removal. This chelating effect makes cilantro a common component in natural detox regimens.

2. Chlorella and Spirulina (Green Algae)

Both chlorella and spirulina — nutrient-rich algae — have compounds that may help bind heavy metals and assist with their elimination through digestive pathways. These are widely available as powdered supplements or tablets. Spirulina should come from a reputable company that tests it for contaminants.

3. Garlic

Garlic contains sulfur-based compounds that support glutathione production, a key antioxidant the body uses in detoxification processes. Garlic and other sulfur containing foods may help reduce the burden of metals like lead, mercury, and cadmium.

4. Sulfur-Rich and Antioxidant Foods

Foods rich in sulfur and antioxidants — such as broccoli sprouts, cruciferous vegetables (broccoli, kale, cabbage), and wild blueberries — may support heavy metal detox pathways by boosting liver enzymes and reducing oxidative stress, which is a major consequence of metal accumulation.

5. Vitamin C-Rich Citrus Fruits

Vitamin C — abundant in citrus fruits like lemons, oranges, and grapefruit — has antioxidant activity that helps protect cells from heavy metal-induced oxidative damage and supports detoxification functions.

6. Brazil Nuts (Selenium-Rich Foods)

Brazil nuts are remarkably high in selenium, a trace mineral that plays a role in mitigating heavy metal toxicity, particularly mercury and arsenic. Selenium can form complexes with these metals, reducing their reactivity and helping with their excretion.

7. Green Tea

Polyphenols found in green tea can support liver function and have been associated with modest heavy metal binding activity and antioxidant protection, helping limit damage from metals such as lead, cadmium, and arsenic.

8. Seaweed and Alginates

Certain seaweed varieties (like kelp, wakame, nori) contain alginates — natural polysaccharides that may bind heavy metals in the digestive tract and prevent absorption.

A 2024 PubMed review on polysaccharides highlighted how these natural compounds (including those found in algae) can chelate metals such as lead, mercury, cadmium, and arsenic and support detoxification and antioxidant defense.

9. Alpha-Lipoic Acid (ALA)

ALA is an antioxidant that works in both water- and fat-soluble environments and is involved in recycling other antioxidants, including glutathione. It has been studied for its role in decreasing heavy metal-related oxidative stress and may aid in detoxification processes.

10. Cruciferous Vegetable Compounds

Phytonutrients such as sulforaphane — found in broccoli sprouts and other cruciferous veggies — can stimulate phase II detox enzymes in the liver, which are important for processing and eliminating toxins, including heavy metals.

Working with a Knowledgeable Healthcare Practitioner is Recommended for Best Outcomes

Before starting any supplement, especially chelators or high-dose antioxidants (e.g., chlorella, ALA), it’s important to consult a healthcare provider — particularly if you have existing medical conditions or take medications. Supplements can interact with drugs or mobilize metals without proper binding, potentially increasing symptoms if done incorrectly.

At Rezilir Health, we often test multiple toxin levels when developing a treatment plan for our patients. Testing for toxins and heavy metals is crucial if you are experiencing cognitive symptoms that may be associated with heavy metal or other toxicities or if you are struggling with chronic illness. Working with a healthcare professional who can guide you through a detox protocol tailored to your needs is essential for best outcomes.

Public Awareness is Needed to Make Informed Food Choices

Florida’s recent disclosure of arsenic in widely consumed candies has underscored a broader truth: heavy metal contamination is a complex, real issue in the food supply — one that spans candy, chocolate, rice, seafood, and beyond. Although regulatory standards exist, variations in testing methodology and thresholds create gaps in public awareness and protective policies. In a world where environmental contamination increasingly intersects with daily diets, informed choices and continued scientific scrutiny are essential to safeguard health and minimize risks from these hidden contaminants.

Where to Learn More about Toxins in Food and Hygiene Products

Environmental Contaminants in Food: Chemical Contaminants & Pesticides | FDA

FDA’s Testing of Cosmetics for Heavy Metals: FDA’s Testing of Cosmetics for Arsenic, Cadmium, Chromium, Cobalt, Lead, Mercury, and Nickel Content | FDA

CompTox Chemical Dashboard by the EPA: CompTox Chemicals Dashboard

Clean Label Project: cleanlabelproject.org

Consumer Reports: Heavy Metals in Food & Drink – Consumer Reports

Environmental Working Group (reports toxins in food and hygiene products): ewg.org

Lead Safe Mama (tests various products for heavy metals): tamararubin.com

Healthy Florida First: Healthy Florida First | Building a Healthier Florida

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Detoxifying Cilantro-Garlic Cruciferous Power Bowl

Medicinal Ingredients:

• Cilantro – studied for potential metal-binding properties.
• Garlic – rich in sulfur compounds that support glutathione.
• Cruciferous vegetables (broccoli, kale, cabbage, Brussels sprouts) contain glucosinolates that convert to sulforaphane, which supports phase II detox enzymes in the liver.
• Lemon – vitamin C supports antioxidant recycling.
• Extra virgin olive oil – enhances absorption of fat-soluble phytonutrients.

Ingredients (Serves 2–3)

Roasted Vegetables

• 2 cups broccoli florets
• 2 cups Brussels sprouts, halved
• 1 cup red cabbage, sliced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
• ½ teaspoon sea salt
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper

Cilantro Detox Sauce

• 1 packed cup fresh cilantro
• 1 small clove garlic
• Juice of 1 lemon
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 tablespoon pumpkin seeds (optional, adds zinc)
• 2–3 tablespoons filtered water (to blend)
• Pinch sea salt

Base (Optional but Recommended)

• 1 cup cooked quinoa or cauliflower rice
• Optional protein: wild salmon, pasture-raised chicken, or chickpeas

Instructions

1. Roast the Cruciferous Vegetables

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Toss broccoli, Brussels sprouts, and cabbage with olive oil, garlic, salt, and pepper.
3. Spread on a baking sheet in a single layer.
4. Roast 20–25 minutes until tender and slightly browned.

2. Make the Cilantro Sauce

1. Blend cilantro, garlic, lemon juice, olive oil, pumpkin seeds, water, and salt until smooth.
2. Adjust consistency with more water if needed.

3. Assemble the Bowl

1. Add quinoa or cauliflower rice to a bowl.
2. Top with roasted vegetables.
3. Add protein if using.
4. Drizzle generously with cilantro detox sauce.

Optional Add-Ins for Extra Detox Support

• Extra raw garlic (let it sit 10 minutes after chopping to activate allicin)
• Broccoli sprouts (very high in sulforaphane)
• Wild blueberries (rich in antioxidants)
• Avocado (supports bile flow and nutrient absorption)
• 1–2 Brazil nuts on the side (selenium supports mercury detox pathways)

References

ExposingFoodToxins.com. (n.d.). Exposing Food Toxins: Information on heavy metals and contaminants in food. Retrieved February 11, 2026, from https://exposingfoodtoxins.com/

Florida Department of Health. (2026, January 26). ICYMI: Florida releases candy testing results under Healthy Florida First initiative [Press release]. Florida Department of Health. Retrieved from https://www.floridahealth.gov/2026/01/26/icymi-florida-releases-candy-testing-results-under-healthy-florida-first-initiative/

WUSF Health News. (2026, January 26). Candy under the microscope: Florida testing reveals arsenic in sweet treats. Retrieved from https://www.wusf.org/health-news-florida/2026-01-26/candy-under-microscope-florida-testing-reveals-arsenic-in-sweet-treats/

Al-Saleh, I., & Abduljabbar, M. (2017). Heavy metals (lead, cadmium, methylmercury, arsenic) in commonly imported rice grains and their potential health risk. International Journal of Hygiene and Environmental Health, 220(7), 1168–1178. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.ijheh.2017.07.003

Mahaffey, K. R., Corneliussen, P. E., Jelinek, C. F., & Fiorino, J. A. (1975). Heavy metal exposure from foods. Environmental Health Perspectives, 12, 63–69. https://doi.org/10.1289/ehp.751263

Parker, G. H., Gillie, C. E., Miller, J. V., Badger, D. E., & Kreider, M. L. (2022). Human health risk assessment of arsenic, cadmium, lead, and mercury ingestion from baby foods. Toxicology Reports, 9, 129–137. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.toxrep.2021.12.023

Rehman, K., Fatima, F., Waheed, I., & Akash, M. S. H. (2018). Prevalence of exposure of heavy metals and their impact on health consequences. Journal of Cellular Biochemistry, 119(1), 157–184. https://doi.org/10.1002/jcb.26234

Vaughn, M. B., & Miller, M. D. (2024). Multi-year heavy metal analysis of 72 dark chocolate and cocoa products in the USA. Frontiers in Nutrition, 11, Article 1366231. https://doi.org/10.3389/fnut.2024.1366231

Zhao, F. J., Ma, Y., Zhu, Y. G., Tang, Z., & McGrath, S. P. (2015). Soil contamination in China: Current status and mitigation strategies. Environmental Science & Technology, 49(2), 750–759. https://doi.org/10.1021/es5047099

Iddrisu L, Danso F, Cheong KL, Fang Z, Zhong S. Polysaccharides as Protective Agents against Heavy Metal Toxicity. Foods. 2024 Mar 11;13(6):853. doi: 10.3390/foods13060853. PMID: 38540843; PMCID: PMC10969705.