EU REGULATION ON NICKEL IN COCOA & CHOCOLATES

EU REGULATION ON NICKEL IN COCOA & CHOCOLATES

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At Sierra Naturals, we are committed to upholding the highest standards of food safety and quality.

That’s why every batch of our cacao powder and chocolate undergoes rigorous nickel testing. Our analysis process ensures full compliance with EU safety regulations and provides our customers with added confidence in the purity and safety of our products. By proactively monitoring for nickel, we reinforce our commitment to transparency, responsibility, and consumer well-being.

fine Peruvian cacao powder, highlighting its rich brown color and smooth texture, perfect for baking, beverages, and other culinary applications.

On 30 July 2025, the European Commission adopted Regulation (EU) 2024/1987, updating nickel maximum levels for specific food groups, including cocoa and chocolate products.

Why It Matters

Nickel is a naturally occurring metal found in soil, water, and air. Due to its widespread presence in the environment, it can accumulate in plant-based foods, such as cocoa and its derivatives. While trace amounts are typically harmless, chronic dietary exposure to nickel has been associated with adverse health effects. These range from mild allergic reactions and gastrointestinal discomfort to, in rare instances, more serious toxicological outcomes.

To address these risks and better protect public health, regulatory bodies such as the European Union have introduced updated guidelines that limit the permissible levels of nickel in food products. These measures are designed to reduce consumer exposure over time, particularly in sensitive populations.

See the current Nickel limits for cocoa and Chocolates:

Source: Regulation (EU) 2024/1987 – maximum nickel levels for cocoa & chocolate
See the regulation here