TALLAHASSEE, Fla. — Florida officials announced new food safety findings this week as part of the state’s Healthy Florida First initiative, releasing the results of candy product testing aimed at increasing transparency for families and strengthening accountability for products marketed to children.
Governor Ron DeSantis, First Lady Casey DeSantis, and Florida Surgeon General Joseph Ladapo said the testing was conducted by the Florida Department of Health (DOH) to provide parents with clearer, accessible information about foods commonly consumed by children.
“Transparency is vital to our mission,” Governor DeSantis said in a statement, noting that the initiative is designed to promote innovation, ensure accountability, and empower Floridians to make healthier choices for their families.
Candy Testing Findings
Building on earlier testing of infant formula products, DOH analyzed 46 candy products from 10 companies for heavy metals. According to the state, arsenic was detected in 28 of the products tested, prompting further evaluation of potential exposure risks—particularly for children.
State officials emphasized that the results are intended to inform families and encourage accountability across the food industry, especially for products heavily marketed to young consumers.
Following Infant Formula Review
Earlier this month, Florida released results from testing 24 infant formula products sold both online and in stores statewide. Samples from seven major brands were reviewed for heavy metals and pesticides. That testing identified elevated levels of certain heavy metals—mercury, arsenic, cadmium, and lead—when compared to health-based screening benchmarks.
“As parents and consumers, we should have confidence that the products sold in grocery stores are safe,” First Lady Casey DeSantis said. “No one should have to wonder whether the food they are feeding their children is quietly impacting their health over time.”
State Surgeon General Dr. Joseph Ladapo said evaluating risks and clearly communicating findings to the public are essential steps toward improving food safety and public health outcomes in Florida.
“Food is an essential part of life, and we need it to be as safe and nutritious as possible,” Ladapo said. “Communicating these findings helps drive the change we seek in the food industry.”
Where to Find the Results
Both the infant formula testing results and the newly released candy testing data are available to the public at ExposingFoodToxins.com, according to the state.
Florida officials say the candy testing initiative is part of a broader effort under Healthy Florida First to promote clean and transparent food systems, rebuild trust in public health, and support evidence-based decision-making for families across the state.
