Toxic heavy metals found in popular protein powders: Consumer Reports investigation

"Millions of Americans-from bodybuilders and athletes to busy professionals, elderly individuals and health-conscious consumers-rely on protein powders and shakes as a convenient way to meet their nutritional needs. Industry estimates suggest that over 40% of U.S. adults regularly consume protein supplements, fueling a $25 billion global market. Yet, shocking new findings reveal that many of these products contain dangerous levels of arsenic, cadmium, lead and mercury-heavy metals linked to cancer, neurological damage and organ failure."

"A Consumer Reports investigation tested 15 popular protein powders and drinks, uncovering that every single one contained measurable toxins, with some brands exceeding safety limits by over 1,500% per serving. Even more alarming, plant-based proteins-often marketed as "clean" alternatives-averaged nine times more lead than dairy-based options, exposing health-conscious consumers to the highest risks. With no enforceable FDA limits for heavy metals in supplements, manufacturers operate in a regulatory gray zone, leaving millions unknowingly poisoning themselves daily."

"70% of tested protein powders exceeded safe lead levels, with plant-based products containing the highest contamination. Dairy-based proteins showed lower heavy metal levels, but half still exceeded safety thresholds. No enforceable FDA limits exist for heavy metals in supplements, leaving consumers unprotected. Cadmium and arsenic were also detected at unsafe levels in multiple products. Experts warn against daily use of contaminated powders, urging caution for vulnerable groups like children and pregnant women."

Seventy percent of tested protein powders exceeded safe lead levels, and plant-based products showed the highest contamination. Dairy-based proteins had lower heavy metal levels, but about half still surpassed safety thresholds. Cadmium and arsenic were detected at unsafe levels in multiple products, and every tested powder contained measurable toxins, with some exceeding safety limits by over 1,500% per serving. Over 40% of U.S. adults regularly consume protein supplements, creating broad exposure. No enforceable FDA limits exist for heavy metals in supplements, leaving consumers unprotected. Experts advise avoiding daily use of contaminated powders, especially for children, pregnant people, and other vulnerable groups.

Read at Natural Health News