America’s Worst Chocolates Are Sold Right Here In Louisiana

LAKE CHARLES, LOUISIANA: For ethical and health concerns, a lot of people are beginning to consider the origins of their chocolate.

Avoiding chocolate products linked to unfair practices, such as slave labor, is becoming more and more popular.

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Here are chocolate brands that 24/7 Wall Street suggests avoiding, along with the reasons why:

1. Hershey's

Hershey's is one of the most popular chocolate brands in the world, but it’s not without its issues. Critics have raised concerns about the company sourcing cocoa from farms that may exploit child labor. Additionally, many of its products are high in sugar and contain artificial additives, which are not ideal for health-conscious consumers.

2. Nestlé

Nestlé has faced numerous controversies over the years, including allegations of using cocoa from farms involved in child labor. Despite its efforts to address these issues, the company’s supply chain remains under scrutiny. Moreover, many of its chocolate products are high in sugar and low in cocoa content, making them less healthy.

3. Godiva

Known for its luxury branding, Godiva has also been criticized for its lack of transparency about cocoa sourcing. Reports suggest that the company may source from farms with unethical practices. While marketed as a premium brand, its products often prioritize sugar over high-quality cocoa.

4. Lindt

Lindt, a Swiss chocolate maker, has faced criticism for sourcing cocoa from illegal farms in the Ivory Coast and Ghana. Additionally, tests in 2022 found that some of its dark chocolate contained lead and cadmium levels above U.S. safety limits. These findings raise both ethical and health concerns for consumers.

5. Mars

Mars, the maker of popular chocolates like M&M’s and Snickers, has come under fire for its cocoa sourcing practices. The company has been linked to farms in West Africa that use child labor. While Mars has pledged to address these issues, progress has been slow, and concerns remain about the transparency of its supply chain. Additionally, many of its products are high in sugar and artificial additives, making them less suitable for health-conscious consumers.

Making Better Choices When Buying Chocolate

When buying chocolate, consider brands that are certified fair trade or have transparent sourcing practices. Look for products with higher cocoa content and minimal additives to ensure both ethical and healthy choices.