A recent investigation by Consumer Reports revealed concerning levels of lead in various protein powders. This study tested 23 protein powders and ready-to-drink shakes from different retailers over several months. The results showed that over two-thirds of these products contained more lead in a single serving than what experts consider safe for an entire day. Some samples had lead levels exceeding ten times the safety threshold.
The highest lead levels were found in plant-based protein powders, which had lead levels nearly nine times higher than dairy-based options. However, whey and dairy-based proteins showed lower contamination levels, with half still considered potentially risky for daily consumption.
Emily Hilliard, a spokesperson for the Department of Health and Human Services, indicated that the FDA is reviewing these findings to refine their testing and enforcement. The Council for Responsible Nutrition advised caution regarding the interpretation of this data, highlighting that trace amounts of heavy metals may not always indicate a health risk.
Consumer Reports is not alone in this concern. A previous study from the Clean Label Project found that nearly half of 160 tested protein products exceeded safety thresholds for toxic metals. This growing awareness is crucial as many Americans have adopted higher protein diets.
Lead exposure has known risks, including reproductive issues, kidney damage, and cognitive impairment. The main threat arises from chronic exposure, even at low levels. While Consumer Reports advised moderation rather than panic, they suggest scrutinizing your protein shakes and opting for safer choices.
For protein powders, Consumer Reports brands anything with Prop 65 warnings to be avoided. They emphasize that many protein needs can be met through whole foods like Greek yogurt, nuts, and legumes. The USDA’s nutrient recommendation calculator can help individuals tailor their protein intake based on personal needs.
Experts recommend balancing protein intake through various sources, as relying solely on protein powders may not be necessary.
For more details, you can explore the original findings in the full Consumer Reports article.
