The French consumer association UFC-Que Choisir has issued a warning about the presence of cadmium, a heavy metal with harmful health effects, in dark chocolate and other cocoa-based products. The group highlighted that cadmium accumulates easily in cocoa plants, leading to a "non-negligible" amount in chocolate. This metal is known to be carcinogenic and has been linked by some medical professionals to an increase in pancreatic tumors, although scientific consensus remains complex. UFC-Que Choisir advises moderation in chocolate consumption, especially for children, due to the potential health risks. The warning extends to other foods such as cereals and cakes that may also contain cadmium. The association's president, Marie-Amandine Stévenin, emphasized the ease with which cocoa plants absorb cadmium from the environment. The alert aims to raise consumer awareness about the dangers of cadmium exposure through common dietary sources.