How Florida Got Its Arsenic And Candy Report Wrong

Florida failed to use globally accepted scientific food testing methodology and instead used testing methods for soil and water, falsely inflating results by as much as 3,800%

The Situation

NCA conducted a thorough review of the State of Florida's report issued on January 26, 2026, and found it lacks scientific integrity and credible data to support its conclusions. Through research conducted by internationally recognized third party experts, we have discovered the state used the wrong testing methodology for a food analysis, which skewed results, created consumer confusion, and set off a media swirl. This action is the source of disinformation for social media influencers and traditional media outlets.

NCA Statement

The following statement can be attributed to NCA Senior Vice President of Public Affairs & Communications Christopher Gindlesperger:

"Florida's arsenic claims are based on a testing method designed for environmental samples like soil and water - not FDA-validated methods used globally to measure arsenic in food. Florida's false conclusions about arsenic in candy are based on a testing method that is known to produce inaccurate results in food products. Using the wrong test leads to incorrect results, unnecessary alarm, and widespread confusion - none of which advances the health and safety of consumers. Sound public health decisions require reliable and validated methodology. As the State of Florida works to address the health needs of its citizens, it's important that it uses the correct methodology and acknowledges when mistakes are made."

Additional Background Information

• Florida used the wrong test. The testing method that Florida used is not designed or validated for food. The State used EPA Method 6010D, which is intended for environmental samples, like soil and water - not food.
• The results published by the State of Florida were inflated by 1,200% - 3,800%. Florida's assessment of arsenic levels in candy ranged from 180 ppb to 570 ppb, whereas the FDA's analysis found arsenic levels in confectionery products do not exceed 15 ppb. The major discrepancy here is explained by Florida using the wrong testing methodology and system of measurement. For context, there is more arsenic in cucumbers (max: 31 ppb), mushrooms (max: 24 ppb), and cantaloupes (max: 24 ppb) than in candy. (FDA Total Diet Study (TDS) | FDA)
• FDA and regulatory bodies around the world use validated, food-specific methods for arsenic analysis and established arsenic benchmarks. These methods are tailored to different food types and underpin FDA safety thresholds which are called action levels. For instance, FDA's Total Diet Study (TDS) uses Elemental Analysis Manual (EAM) 4.7 for the analysis of metals (including arsenic) in food.
• The FDA's Total Diet Study (TDS) is a long-standing national program that tracks trends in the U.S. population's dietary exposure to nutrients and contaminants (such as arsenic) in foods (including candy) and informs the development of research and regulatory interventions to reduce or minimize risks. The TDS began in 1961 and includes analytical data through 2021-2022. (FDA Total Diet Study (TDS) | FDA)

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About the National Confectioners Association (NCA)
The National Confectioners Association is the voice of the U.S. confectionery industry. Our member companies create moments of joy with chocolate, candy, gum, and mints, drive $54 billion in retail sales, and add a little sweetness to life. NCA champions policies that help candy makers and other stakeholders in this unique category thrive while reminding consumers that chocolate and candy are treats. Learn more at CandyUSA.com or follow NCA on Facebook, X, and Instagram.