Reporting that improves people’s lives
CONSUMER REPORTS BUILDS ON ITS LONGSTANDING REPUTATION OF HELPING CONSUMERS MAKE BETTER DECISIONS
Dark chocolate—low in sugar and high on flavor—has a reputation for being a healthy treat. It even provides a host of health benefits, including lowered blood pressure, better cholesterol, and a reduced risk of heart disease. But research from Consumer Reports (CR) shows that many dark chocolate bars contain potentially harmful levels of cadmium and lead, heavy metals that can contribute to bone fragility, kidney damage, and nervous system problems.
When CR published its findings in December 2022, it also launched a campaign targeting makers of popular chocolate products like Trader Joe’s, Hershey’s, Mondelez, and Theo. Today, more than 75,000 consumers have signed a petition demanding that companies change the way dark chocolate bars are made. The CFO of Hershey’s said the company is evaluating its ability to remove cadmium and lead from its bars through alternate sourcing or additional cleaning of cocoa beans.
“It’s not enough for us to uncover hidden dangers and expose systemic problems,” says Marta Tellado, president and CEO of CR, via an email interview. “We’re committed to translating our findings into tangible improvements that enhance people’s lives.” This commitment continues to yield gamechanging, real-world results, earning the organization a spot on Fast Company’s 2023 list of Brands that Matter.
RIGOROUS TESTING
During its 87-year existence, CR has built a reputation for independence, objectivity, and trustworthiness. A nonprofit organization, CR pays for all of the products it rates, and it has never accepted advertising on its platforms. “In an era where misinformation and bias are rampant, CR stands as a beacon of credible information,” Tellado says.
To determine products’ effectiveness and safety, CR’S experts conduct rigorous, comparative testing in more than 60 labs. They evaluate everything from mattresses and refrigerators to pet insurance and travel credit cards. Its testing protocol for cars and trucks provides a window into its unique methods.
First, a team of engineers, journalists, and data scientists break in the vehicles by putting about 2,000 miles on them. Then they conduct more than 50 tests at CR’S state-of-the-art auto test center in Colchester, Connecticut, to assess braking, handling, comfort, convenience, fuel economy, and safety. On top of these steps, CR incorporates government and industry data on crash test performance, reliability, and owner satisfaction. The goal—not just for vehicles, but for everything CR tests— is nothing less than to give consumers the most comprehensive picture possible of a product’s performance and safety.
ADVOCACY FOR THE PUBLIC GOOD
Dark chocolate bars aren’t the only products CR has drawn attention to recently. Last year, CR testing revealed the presence of Pfas—“forever chemicals” associated with immune-system suppression, lower birth weight, and increased risk for some cancers—in the packaging of dozens of restaurants and grocery chains. After CR reported on the issue, several large fast-food chains publicly committed to phase out PFAS.
In another win for public safety, a landmark law called the STURDY Act went into effect this September. The legislation, spurred by CR testing and advocacy, introduces mandatory stability requirements for furniture to prevent child deaths and injuries caused by pieces tipping over.
“By partnering with policymakers, industry leaders, advocates, and consumers, we foster a dialogue that leads to solutions,” Tellado says. “Our goal isn’t just to highlight problems but to work collaboratively toward a better and safer marketplace for all.”