Review on maximum limits of cadmium in cocoa (Theobrama cacao l.)

Abstract

Cadmium (Cd) tends to bioaccumulate in Thebroma cacao beans, affecting human health and its marketing possibilities. For this reason, the European Union (EU) approved Regulation No 488/2014 for processed cocoa products, which applies from January 2019, and motivated authors to conduct research on its bioaccumulation in beans, the potential risks to health, quality, and its export possibilities. The results show high levels in different regions of the main Latin American (LA) producing countries: Brazil, Ecuador, Colombia, Peru, the Dominican Republic, Bolivia, Honduras, and others. However, EU regulation does not stipulate maximum limits for raw cocoa. In the absence of it, research has been classified by reference to the limits for processed cocoa, generating oversized metal levels, controversies in the producer’s and setback in replacing illegal coca cultivation in this region. Thus, this review article will detail research on Cd levels in cocoa beans in major Latin American producing countries, the application of EU regulation No 488/2014 to raw cocoa, proposals to set maximum limits on raw beans and their implications for replacing illicit crops.