Implications of distribution of cadmium between the nibs and testae of cocoa beans on its marketability and food safety assessment

There is increasing concern globally, regarding the consumption of foods contaminated with heavy metals such as cadmium (Cd), with consequent implementation of stringent food safety standards for consumer protection. Cd contents of cocoa beans can affect whether shipments of beans can be sold and whether cocoa products manufactured from beans with Cd can meet food safety standards. Cd determinations in bean exports are usually carried out on whole beans, which are comprised of nibs and the covering testae/shells, the latter being impossible to completely remove from the nibs used in chocolate and cocoa powder manufacture. The aim of this study was to evaluate the distribution of Cd levels between the nibs and shells of cocoa beans. This can allow for assessment of possible implications of the analytical protocols used for Cd determination in cocoa beans and the possible consequences for the safety of cocoa products made from such beans. Fermented and dried cocoa bean samples from different cacao-growing a...