Your Favorite Protein Powder May Contain Heavy Metals

Protein powders have become a staple in many people’s diets as a way to boost protein intake, build muscle and support recovery. However, recent research from the Clean Label Project (CLP) has raised concerns about the presence of heavy metals in protein powders. 

The study found that nearly half of the protein powders tested contained levels of toxic metals, such as lead, cadmium and arsenic, exceeding safety thresholds. While this has sparked concern among regular protein powder users, health experts from the Council for Responsible Nutrition (CRN) have issued a response that challenges the findings and urges a closer look at the data.

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CRN is an industry association that represents many dietary supplement and functional food manufacturers, as well as ingredient suppliers. Their membership includes brands like Amway, Herbalife, Nestlé and Bayer.

We took a look at both sides of the debate to find out what you really need to know.

What Does the New Study Say?

The CLP conducted a study of 160 protein powders from 70 top-selling brands—that’s about 80% of the powders commonly found on the market. According to the report, 47% of the tested products exceeded California’s Proposition 65 safety limits for heavy metals. 

Plant-based protein powders were particularly concerning, with higher levels of lead and cadmium than whey-based powders. Organic protein powders also tested positive for lead at a higher level—41% of organic powders tested at twice the limit set in Proposition 65. And chocolate-flavored protein powders had up to four times more lead than vanilla-flavored ones.

CLP’s report highlighted that these metals could enter protein powders through environmental exposure, such as contaminated soil, air and water or packaging materials. As a conclusion to the findings, CLP cautions protein powder users about the potential long-term health risks associated with ingesting these metals, citing their links to serious conditions like cancer and kidney disease.

Why Are There Heavy Metals in So Many Protein Powders?

While these findings may sound alarming, the CRN has expressed concerns about how the data is presented. According to Andrea Wong, Ph.D., senior vice president of scientific & regulatory affairs with the Council for Responsible Nutrition (CRN), the study lacks crucial context that would help consumers make informed decisions.

“The detection of contaminants, as highlighted in this report, does not inherently equate to a health risk,” explains Wong. “Modern analytical techniques can detect even trace levels of naturally occurring elements, such as heavy metals, which are present in soil, air, and water. These trace levels are often well below established safety thresholds set by federal agencies like the FDA and the EPA.”

Wong points out that CLP’s reliance on California’s Proposition 65 standards, which are significantly stricter than federal guidelines, could lead to unnecessary concern. “Exceeding the Prop 65 level does not necessarily translate into a harmful level. It simply means that the product must be labeled for consumer awareness, not that it’s unsafe,” says Wong.

The report also fails to specify whether the heavy metals were detected in forms that are harmful. For instance, Wong notes that some forms of arsenic are nontoxic, but that distinction isn’t made clear in the study.

Furthermore, the CRN expressed concerns about the lack of transparency in CLP’s methodology. “The report does not disclose the actual levels detected or the criteria used to define contamination thresholds. Without this data, consumers cannot assess the validity or significance of the findings,” explains Wong.

Is Your Protein Powder Safe?

Wong says that while reducing contaminants in food and dietary supplements is complex, many companies are taking steps to minimize heavy metal levels through better sourcing practices, manufacturing protocols and testing procedures. 

If you’re concerned about heavy metals in your supplements, know that not all protein powders are created equal. Look for reputable products that provide third-party testing results that provide peace of mind when it comes to the quality and purity of your protein powder. As for CLP, they named Genetic Nutrition, Ritual, Puori, Wicked Protein, Nutrabox and others as recommended, Clean Label Project certified brands.

The Bottom Line

A new report from the Clean Label Project has raised concerns about the presence of heavy metals in protein powders. The Council for Responsible Nutrition (CRN), a trade group that includes some protein powder manufacturers, has responded, explaining that the research’s lack of transparency and reliance on overly strict safety standards may trigger unnecessary alarm. The CRN argues that data such as contamination levels and methodology were not disclosed and that heavy metal levels exceeding California’s Proposition 65 thresholds doesn’t equate to a safety issue. 

As always, be a conscious consumer and read product labels for third-party testing to help ensure you’re buying high-quality supplements. Speak with a registered dietitian or healthcare provider if you have any concerns about the safety of your protein powders.