Lead and Cadmium Harmful Heavy Metals Found in Protein Powders

Author: F Tenolli | Published: 20.01.2025, 08:50

Protein powders marketed for muscle building may contain harmful heavy metals such as cadmium and lead, according to a report by the Clean Label Project released on January 9.

The report revealed that organic protein powders often pose a higher risk, with 77% of plant-based protein powders, 79% of organic protein powders, and 65% of chocolate-flavored powders exceeding California Proposition 65 safety thresholds for toxic metals.

“The findings underscore that many health-focused products may contain elevated levels of contaminants not disclosed on traditional nutrition labels,” the report stated.

The study analyzed 160 products from 70 leading protein powder brands, representing 83% of the market, although specific products and brands were not identified.

Plant-based powders, such as those derived from rice, peas, or soy, were found to contain three times more lead than whey-based products, which are derived from the liquid byproduct of cheese. The contamination likely originates from agricultural practices involving pesticides and fertilizers, as well as environmental exposure or packaging materials. Since heavy metals are naturally present in the Earth’s crust, plants tend to absorb them.

Chocolate-flavored protein powders showed particularly high toxicity levels, containing four times more lead and up to 110 times more cadmium than vanilla-flavored alternatives. This is consistent with previous studies indicating that dark chocolate, while beneficial in some respects, also contains elevated levels of heavy metals.

“Chocolate-flavored protein powders contained significantly higher levels of toxic metals,” said Jaclyn Bowen, executive director of the Clean Label Project.

The Clean Label Project aims to spark transparent dialogue between consumers and manufacturers, urging the industry to adopt stricter standards.

“In the absence of robust federal regulations addressing heavy metals in dietary supplements, it is imperative for the industry to take proactive steps,” the report concluded.

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