EN
Lead and cadmium content of cocoa and some instant cocoa products was determined by atomic absorption spectrometry from organic phase, using a THERMO ELEMENTAL CO. SOLAAR M5 apparatus. The samples were dry-mineralised at 450°C. Lead content ranged on average from 0.16 mg/kg to 0.88 mg/kg in cocoa and from 0.07 mg/kg to 0.48 mg/kg in cocoa instant products, while cadmium content was from 0.033 mg/kg to 0.098 mg/kg in cocoa powder and from 0.012 mg/kg to 0.040 mg/kg in cocoa instant products. The amounts of lead and cadmium found in cocoa and cocoa instant products were within the limits specified by the ordinance issued by the Minister of Health in 2003.