ConsumerLab.com NEWSLETTER December 13, 2022

NEW REVIEW: Best Dark Chocolate & Cocoa

Be careful with cocoa and chocolate!

Several cocoa powders and dark chocolates failed our recent tests due to contamination with high levels of cadmium, a toxic heavy metal.

We also found that amounts of potentially beneficial cocoa flavanols ranged from just 1 milligram to several hundred milligrams in cocoa powders and mixes, dark chocolates, and supplements. A dose of at least 200 mg is typically taken for health benefits.

See the results now and our Top Picks among:

   • Dark Chocolate Bars

   • Chocolate Chips

   • Cocoa Powders

   • Hot Chocolate Mixes

   • Cacao Nibs

   • Cocoa Supplements

We also explain why you need to look out for Dutched products, and we discuss potential side effects and safety concerns with cocoa and chocolate, including information about nickel and oxalates in chocolate.

It's all in our new Dark Chocolates, Cocoa & Cacao Powders, Nibs, and Supplements Review.

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CL ANSWERS:

Goat’s Milk Soap?
A CL Member asked if goat’s milk soap is a better option than other soaps for people with sensitive skin. Find out in our updated article, 5 Tips for Finding a Soap or Body Wash That Won’t Irritate Skin, which includes our Top Picks for soap and bodywash.

Want more?  See answers to other questions and comments from readers.

CLINICAL UPDATES:

Butyrate for Weight Reduction?
Did supplementing with butyrate help children with obesity? Find out what a recent study found in our article about the health benefits and safety of butyrate supplements.

See other recent clinical updates >>

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COVID UPDATES:

Best N95 and KN95 Masks
Masks are once again recommended for use in indoor public places in some parts of the U.S. See our Top Picks among N95 and KN95 masks.

COVID Booster for Young Children
Children as young as 6 months may be able to get an updated COVID booster. Get the details about who is eligible for which vaccines in our CL Answer about COVID-19 vaccines.

WARNING:

FDA Warns Saffron USA for Promoting Teas to Treat Insomnia, Osteoporosis & Cancer

See other recent warnings and recalls >>

POPULAR NOW ON CL:

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UPCOMING REVIEWS:

	- "Fruits & Veggies" Supplements - Coming Next
	- Flaxseeds (Ground and Whole)
	- GABA Supplements
	- Saffron Supplements
	- Quercetin and Rutin Supplements
	- Multivitamin/Multimineral Supplements
	- Workout Supplements (BCAAs and Creatine)
	- L-Theanine Supplements
	- Water Filter Pitchers
	- Extra Virgin Olive Oils

See our current reviews of more than 100 additional categories of products.

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