THE VILLAGES, Fla. – Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis and First Lady Casey DeSantis highlighted on Monday their efforts to improve the safety and integrity of the food supply across the state.
During a news conference in The Villages, Ron and Casey DeSantis announced new food safety findings under the Healthy Florida First initiative, with the release of candy product testing results conducted by the Florida Department of Health (DOH).
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“Our ‘Healthy Florida First’ initiative promotes innovation, ensures accountability, and empowers Floridians to make the healthiest choices for their families. Transparency is vital to that mission,“ said Gov. DeSantis.
Earlier this month, Florida released infant formula testing results after DOH analyzed 24 infant formula products sold online and in stores across the state, reviewing samples from seven major brands for heavy metals and pesticides. The testing identified elevated levels of certain heavy metals compared to health-based screening benchmarks, including mercury, arsenic, cadmium, and lead.
The DOH also tested 46 candy products from 10 companies for heavy metals. According to state officials, arsenic was detected in 28 of the products tested, prompting further evaluation of potential exposure risks, particularly for children.
“As parents and consumers, we should have confidence that the products sold in grocery stores are safe and free from poison,” said First Lady Casey DeSantis. “No one should have to wonder whether the food that they are feeding their children is quietly impacting their health over time. Through independent testing under the ‘Healthy Florida First’ initiative, we are bringing sunlight and transparency to the quality of food in our food supply.”