Additional Coverage:
Concerns Raised Over Heavy Metals in Popular Protein Powders
A recent investigation by Consumer Reports has unveiled potentially unsafe levels of lead in numerous protein powders and shakes, prompting calls for stricter regulatory oversight. The report, published Tuesday, analyzed 23 different protein supplements, including dairy, beef, and plant-based options, finding that over two-thirds of these products contained more than the recommended daily safe limit of 0.5 micrograms of lead per serving.
“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,” stated Brian Ronholm, director of food policy at Consumer Reports, in a news release. He added, “Our tests found that toxic heavy metal contamination in protein supplements is widespread and has worsened since we first analyzed these products 15 years ago.”
Plant-Based Products Show Highest Lead Levels
The investigation highlighted a significant disparity in lead contamination, with plant-based protein products, on average, containing approximately nine times more lead than dairy-based proteins (like whey) and twice as much as beef-based products.
Among the products identified with the highest lead content were Naked Nutrition’s Vegan Mass Gainer and Huel’s Black Edition, which Consumer Reports advised consumers to avoid. A comprehensive list of all tested products is available in the full report.
Companies Respond to Findings
In response to the report, a spokesperson for Huel informed Consumer Reports that its ingredients undergo “rigorous testing” and expressed confidence in “the current formulation and safety of the products.” Rebecca Williams, Huel’s Head of Nutrition, further clarified in a statement to CBS News that their products “fully comply with international food safety regulations” and are “completely safe to consume.”
Williams elaborated, “Trace amounts of lead occur naturally in some food ingredients. The level reported by Consumer Reports for Huel Black Edition is well within internationally recognised safety limits and poses no health risk. We carry out regular testing with accredited independent laboratories to ensure our products consistently meet the highest standards of quality and safety.”
Naked Nutrition, through a spokesperson, stated that it sources ingredients from “select suppliers” who provide documentation confirming heavy metal checks. The company also indicated that it has requested a third-party test of its Mass Gainer powder. CBS News has reached out to Naked Nutrition for further comment.
Additional Heavy Metals Detected
Beyond lead, the Consumer Reports investigation also identified other concerning heavy metals. Two products exceeded Consumer Reports’ threshold for cadmium, classified as a probable human carcinogen by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). Furthermore, three products were found to contain inorganic arsenic, which the EPA recognizes as a known human carcinogen.
Call for FDA Action
The report underscored a critical regulatory gap, noting that “Unlike prescription and over-the-counter drugs, the Food and Drug Administration doesn’t review, approve, or test supplements like protein powders before they are sold.”
In response, Consumer Reports launched a petition on Tuesday, urging the FDA to take action once the government shutdown concludes. “No one should have to worry that their protein shake could expose them to dangerous levels of lead. It’s time for the FDA to protect the public and hold industry accountable by setting strong limits on lead in protein powders and shakes,” Ronholm asserted.
Earlier this year, the FDA established guidelines for lead levels in processed baby foods, such as jarred fruits and vegetables, marking a first for the agency in this category.