Health And Wellness
Food Safety
Protein Powders
Lead Contamination
Consumer Reports

Whey Protein Powders: Protein Powders and Shakes Contain High Levels of Lead

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2 min read
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North America
October 16, 2025
www.consumerreports.org
Whey Protein Powders: Protein Powders and Shakes Contain High Levels of Lead

"A new investigation by Consumer Reports has uncovered a disturbing trend in the popular protein powder market. The organization's analysis of 23 protein powders and shakes found that more than two-thirds of them contain high levels of lead, a toxic heavy metal that can have serious health consequences.
According to Brian Ronholm, director of food policy at Consumer Reports, "Protein powders and shakes have become immensely popular and are part of a daily routine for many people who are focused on consuming more protein in their diet." However, the tests found that toxic heavy metal contamination in protein supplements is widespread and has worsened since the first analysis 15 years ago.
The report highlights a disturbing disparity in lead levels between plant-based and dairy-based proteins, with plant-based products showing nine times higher levels of lead than dairy-based proteins. The investigation also identified specific products to avoid, including Naked Nutrition Vegan Mass Gainer and Huel Black Edition.
"We advise consumers to limit or avoid these products altogether," said Paris Martineau, investigative reporter at Consumer Reports. "The risks are growing right alongside the industry itself." As the protein powder market continues to boom, concerns about the safety of these products are growing.
With Americans' obsession with protein showing no signs of slowing down, the question remains: what's next for the protein powder industry? Will manufacturers take concrete steps to ensure the safety of their products, or will consumers continue to bear the risks? Only time will tell.
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This article was generated with AI assistance and may contain errors. Readers are encouraged to verify information independently.

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