• Consumer Reports found that over two-thirds of 27 tested cassava products had lead levels exceeding acceptable thresholds, with some exceeding by over 2,000%.
• Cassava flour and chips were found to have the highest levels of lead contamination due to the plant's root nature and the grinding process.
• Experts recommend avoiding seven specific cassava products and suggest switching to gluten-free alternatives like buckwheat, corn, or millet to reduce lead exposure.

Consumer Reports released an investigation this week revealing that many cassava-based products contain alarmingly high levels of lead. The nonprofit reviewed 27 cassava-based products and found that more than two-thirds exceeded Consumer Reports' acceptable lead levels, some by over 2,000%. This contamination is attributed to cassava's root nature, absorbing heavy metals from the soil, with the grinding process for flour further concentrating these toxins. The report provides a list of products to avoid and recommends safer alternatives.

• What: Consumer Reports found high lead levels in cassava-based products, with some exceeding safe thresholds by over 2,000%.
• Who: Consumer Reports, James Rogers (Director of Food Safety Research and Testing at Consumer Reports), consumers of gluten-free products.
• When: Investigation released this week; testing conducted recently.
• Where: United States (Consumer Reports testing and recommendations apply to products available in the US market).

The Consumer Reports investigation highlights a significant health concern for consumers, particularly those on gluten-free diets who rely on cassava-based products. The report clearly outlines the risks associated with lead exposure and provides actionable advice for consumers to mitigate their risk. The fact that some products exceeded lead levels by over 2,000% is alarming and underscores the need for stricter monitoring and regulation of heavy metals in food products. The recommendation to switch to alternative gluten-free options like buckwheat, corn, or millet offers a practical solution for consumers concerned about lead exposure.

Some of these cassava products had the highest level of lead that we’ve ever tested, and I’ve been with Consumer Reports for eight and a half years.

The negative effects of lead happen over time when there’s chronic exposure, so you won’t get lead poisoning if you eat one serving of these products. However, I would strongly urge consumers to reconsider using the seven products we listed to avoid.

The Consumer Reports investigation reveals a concerning level of lead contamination in cassava-based gluten-free products. Consumers are advised to avoid specific products identified in the report and consider safer gluten-free alternatives. While occasional consumption of contaminated products is unlikely to cause immediate harm, long-term exposure poses health risks. This report underscores the importance of informed dietary choices and the need for continued monitoring of heavy metal levels in food products.