Consumer Reports warned that your protein powder might have lead in it. Brands on the list are pushing back

"Protein powders are notoriously hit-or-miss when it comes to taste. But according to a new study from Consumer Reports (CR), gym bros and casual proteinmaxxers should be less concerned with how their protein powders taste, and more concerned about whether they might contain lead. The study, published on October 14, tested 23 of the most popular protein powders and ready-to-drink shakes for heavy metal contamination."

"The results were striking: More than two-thirds of the products analyzed contained more lead in a single serving than the amount that CR's food safety experts say is safe to consume in a day. CR's report noted that there's "no reason to panic" if readers have been consuming these products, as they're unlikely to cause immediate harm. However, protein companies are pushing back against the results, arguing that the report is "alarmist.""

Twenty-three popular protein powders and ready-to-drink shakes were tested for heavy metal contamination, with multiple samples purchased across two to four lots over a three-month period beginning in November 2024. Samples were analyzed for protein, arsenic, cadmium, lead, and other elements. More than two-thirds of products contained more lead in a single serving than a 0.5 microgram daily threshold based on the California Prop 65 maximum. The FDA has higher estimated benchmarks (2.2 micrograms for children and 8.8 micrograms for women of childbearing age). No amount of lead is technically safe, and protein companies have called the findings alarmist.

Read at Fast Company