Florida officials announced the results of a state test for heavy metals in candy products, expanding a broad effort to evaluate foods marketed to children and provide information to consumers.
The Florida Department of Health (DOH) tested 46 candy products from 10 companies for heavy metals, including arsenic. The state said arsenic was detected in 28 of the products analyzed, prompting further investigation into potential exposure risks, especially to children.
The testing was conducted under the state’s Healthy Florida First initiative, which aims to increase transparency about food safety and product composition. Governor Ron DeSantis, First Lady Casey DeSantis, and Florida Surgeon General Dr. Joseph Ladapo announced the findings in a joint statement.
Earlier this month, the state released the results of another analysis of infant formula products. DOH evaluated 24 infant formulas from seven major brands sold online and in stores across Florida and tested for heavy metals and pesticides. The state reported that some products contained elevated levels of mercury, arsenic, cadmium, and lead compared to health-based screening standards.
State officials said the release of testing data is intended to inform families and encourage accountability from manufacturers of products commonly consumed by children.
The candy testing effort is part of a broader state effort focused on food safety, transparency and public health. The state of Florida posted test results online for both infant formula and candy.
