Consumer Reports Reveals Lead in Protein Powders: What to Know

A recent investigation by Consumer Reports has unveiled concerning levels of lead in approximately two dozen widely used protein powder brands. The findings, published on November 7, 2023, indicate that over two-thirds of the tested products contain lead levels exceeding what experts deem safe for daily consumption.

The nonprofit organization conducted tests on 23 protein powders and ready-to-drink shakes sourced from various retail outlets and online platforms. According to Paris Martineau, a reporter from Consumer Reports, some products exhibited lead concentrations more than ten times the threshold considered safe for daily intake. Notably, plant-based protein powders showed particularly high lead levels, averaging nine times greater than those made from dairy and double that of beef-based options.

Health Risks and Industry Responses

Despite the alarming results, Consumer Reports advises consumers not to panic. Martineau emphasized that while half of the tested products contain elevated levels of lead, the risks associated with occasional consumption are minimal. “The real risk with lead is that even low levels of exposure over time can accumulate in the body and lead to significant health issues,” Martineau explained.

The Council for Responsible Nutrition (CRN), a trade organization representing the dietary supplement industry, urged caution in interpreting the study. The CRN stated that modern testing methods can detect trace amounts of naturally occurring heavy metals, which do not necessarily pose a health risk. The group highlighted that exceeding Consumer Reports’ self-imposed threshold is not equivalent to surpassing government safety limits.

Consumer Reports’ findings add to a growing body of research on heavy metals in everyday products, including spices and personal care items. Earlier this year, the Clean Label Project tested 160 protein products and found that 47% exceeded safety thresholds for toxic metals set by California Proposition 65.

Regulatory Landscape and Consumer Guidance

As there are currently no federal limits on heavy metals in supplements, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has established interim reference levels for lead exposure—2.2 micrograms per day for children and 8.8 micrograms for women of childbearing age. However, these levels serve as action thresholds rather than strict requirements. Dietary supplements are regulated under different standards than food and drugs, resulting in a lack of pre-market testing for contaminants.

In light of these findings, Consumer Reports has called on the FDA to implement enforceable lead limits in food and supplements. Brian Ronholm, the director of food policy at Consumer Reports, stated, “The lack of enforceable standards means unsafe lead levels often go unaddressed.”

For consumers concerned about lead exposure, the report recommends avoiding protein powders with Proposition 65 warnings and considering dairy-based options over plant-based ones. Nutrition experts emphasize that whole foods such as Greek yogurt, nuts, legumes, and meat can provide adequate protein without the risks associated with supplements.

While the protein craze continues to gain traction in the United States, experts advise consumers to evaluate their protein needs carefully. The U.S. Department of Agriculture offers a nutrient recommendation calculator that can assist individuals in determining their protein requirements without relying solely on supplements.

In conclusion, while the presence of lead in protein powders raises valid concerns, informed consumer choices and a focus on whole foods can mitigate potential health risks.