Lead and Cadmium found in popular protein powders
Jan 11, 2025, 7:15 AM

(Photo by David Berding/Getty Images)
(Photo by David Berding/Getty Images)
Great. Something else that we are eating that has heavy metal contamination in it. This time it is protein powders. Plant based and chocolate flavors are the worst offenders. (That’s what I take BTW)
Protein powders have come under scrutiny due to high levels of heavy metals like lead and cadmium found in some over-the-counter supplements, particularly in plant-based, organic, and chocolate-flavored products.
The report found that 77% of plant-based protein powders, 79% of organic protein powders and 65% of chocolate-flavored protein powders tested over California Proposition 65 safety thresholds for toxic metals.
The presence of these harmful substances raises concerns about the safety of these supplements, as lead exposure can lead to severe health complications.
Protein powders made from plants like rice, peas or soy have been found to contain triple the amount of lead compared to products made from whey, the liquid byproduct of cheese, the report finds.
The report suggests the contamination could come from harmful agricultural practices — like some pesticides and fertilizers — as well as packaging or environmental exposure. Heavy metals are naturally occurring in the Earth’s crust, which plants then absorb.
Consumers are advised to exercise caution, consider alternative protein sources, and demand transparency from manufacturers to minimize exposure to toxins.
The findings highlight the need for stricter regulations and transparency in the supplement industry to ensure consumer safety and well-being.
If you love the convenience of protein powder as much as I do, the following companies have protein powders that are Clean Label Project Certified: Genetic Nutrition, Gorilla, Ritual, Oziva, Puori, Wellbeing Nutrition, Wicked Protein and Nutrabox.