California Proposition 65 Statement
As a responsible supplier of chocolate and cocoa powder products, we at Santa Barbara Chocolate take food safety, quality and conformity with legislative and regulatory standards very seriously.
Approved raw material suppliers are asked to demonstrate that they monitor for certain contaminants in the products they supply to us or otherwise certify the raw materials as meeting applicable requirements of
California’s Safe Drinking Water and Toxic Enforcement Act of 1986, also known as Proposition 65.
Trace levels of minerals and elements, such as cadmium (heavy metals), can be found in nearly all cocoa products. However, it is widely accepted by the industry that these elements are absorbed at the farm level through the soil of the cacao trees. Therefore, the values may vary from each individual farm. With regards to minerals, i.e. heavy metals, Prop 65 gives an exemption for chemicals that are “naturally occurring” in food.
Therefore, we consider our chocolate and cocoa powder products to be in compliance with current Prop 65 regulations. Going forward we will adjust our policies as necessary as more information on new Prop 65 standards becomes available.
*This communication is intended to provide advice to Santa Barbara Chocolate customers upon their request. Our interpretation of the law does not represent a formal legal opinion, as we have not sought concurrence with the competent authorities. Customers are encouraged to consult with their own legal counsel.