Protein Powders and Shakes Contain High Levels of Lead, Consumer Reports Finds
Consumer Reports found over two-thirds of tested protein powders have lead levels exceeding safe daily limits, with some products surpassing limits by more than 10 times.
- On Oct. 14, 2025, Consumer Reports published tests of 23 protein powders and ready-to-drink shakes, finding more than two-thirds exceeded its safe daily lead limit.
- Protein demand has surged, with market data showing a $114 billion industry growth, increasing exposure to heavy metals in plant-based ingredients from contaminated soil and water.
- Lab tests showed Naked Nutrition's Vegan Mass Gainer had 7.7 micrograms of lead per serving, roughly 1,570% of Consumer Reports' 0.5 micrograms per day concern level; Huel Black Edition vegan powder tested above 1,200%.
- Consumer Reports urges shoppers to avoid powders with Prop 65 warnings and use concerning products occasionally, while calling on the Food and Drug Administration to set enforceable lead limits as the Department of Health and Human Services reviews the findings.
- Experts warn lead accumulates and can harm unborn babies and children, while registered dietitian Helen Tieu said, `For people who are able to reach their protein targets from whole foods, protein powders and supplements are not necessary.
26 Articles
26 Articles
These Popular Protein Powders Contain Dangerously High Levels of Lead, According to a New Report
It goes bad to worse.Allrecipes / AdobeWe see food trends come and go all the time, but the current protein palooza in the U.S. has no plans of fizzling out. Protein has taken over the freezer aisle, the cereal aisle, and the drive-thru to boot. Candy brands, such as Hershey's and Reese's, rolled out new protein products this year. And even Pop-Tarts is now adding protein to its most popular flavors.But one of the easiest ways to hit protein goa…
Protein Powders, Shakes Loaded With Lead? What To Know About Alarming New Report
A new study by Consumer Reports, published on Oct. 14, 2025, claims that some protein products contain dangerously high levels of lead, as well as other heavy metals such as cadmium and arsenic. The post Protein Powders, Shakes Loaded With Lead? What To Know About Alarming New Report appeared first on Study Finds.
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