Popular Candy Brands in New York Flagged for Elevated Arsenic Levels

Investigation finds over 60% of tested candies contain high amounts of cancer-causing heavy metal

Jan. 28, 2026 at 9:23am

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A new investigation by the Florida Department of Health found that 28 out of 46 popular candy products sold across New York contained elevated levels of the heavy metal arsenic. Experts warn that long-term exposure to arsenic can lead to serious health risks, including cancer in adults and developmental issues in children. The candy brands named in the report include popular items like Nerds, Skittles, Twizzlers, and Kit Kat.

Why it matters

The presence of cancer-causing heavy metals like arsenic in commonly consumed candy products raises significant public health concerns, especially for children who may be more vulnerable to the developmental impacts of arsenic exposure. This investigation highlights the need for stronger regulations and oversight around contaminants in the food supply.

The details

The Florida Department of Health investigation tested 46 popular candy brands sold across the state and found that over 60% of them, or 28 products, contained elevated levels of arsenic. Some of the specific candies named in the report include Black Forest Gummy Bears, Nerds, SweeTarts, Twizzlers, Kit Kat, Snickers, Skittles, and Sour Patch Kids. Experts note that long-term consumption of foods with high arsenic levels can lead to kidney dysfunction, heart disease, cognitive deficits, diabetes, and cancer.

  • The Florida Department of Health investigation was completed in 2026.

The players

Florida Department of Health

The state agency that conducted the investigation into arsenic levels in popular candy brands.

Casey DeSantis

The First Lady of Florida who ordered the testing as part of her "Healthy Florida First" initiative.

Christopher Gindlesperger

The Senior Vice President of Public Affairs and Communications for the National Confectioners Association, who called the study "misguided" in a prepared statement.

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What they’re saying

“It will result in confusion among consumers, regulators, and lawmakers. Alternatively, the FDA's Closer to Zero Initiative was created to reduce dietary exposure to naturally occurring elements (such as arsenic), and is currently working on arsenic action levels for foods consumed by children.”

— Christopher Gindlesperger, Senior Vice President of Public Affairs and Communications, National Confectioners Association (wgna.com)

What’s next

The Florida Department of Health has stated it will continue to monitor candy products sold across the state and work with the FDA's Closer to Zero Initiative to establish safe arsenic levels for foods consumed by children.

The takeaway

This investigation highlights the need for stronger regulations and oversight around contaminants in the food supply, particularly for products marketed to children. Consumers should be aware of the potential health risks associated with long-term exposure to heavy metals like arsenic in commonly consumed candy items.