In present study three toxic metals, cadmium (Cd), nickel (Ni) and lead (Pb) were determined in
chocolates and candy samples available in local markets of Hyderabad, Pakistan. Concentrations
of understudy toxic metals (TMs) were determined by electrothermal atomic absorption
spectrometry (ETAAS) prior to microwave assisted acid digestion. Validation of the methodology
was performed by standard addition method and conventional acid digestion on electric hot plate
to obtained TMs concentration, for comparative purpose to obtain results within the 95%
confidence level. No significant differences were observed for TMs obtained from both methods
(P = 0.05). The concentration of Cd, Ni and Pb were observed in chocolates and candy samples is
ranged as of 0.099 - 0.353, 1.45 - 4.33 and 1.11 - 2.48 µg/g, respectively. The results indicated that
cocoa-based chocolates have higher contents of TMs than milk- based chocolates and candies.