Plant-based protein powders contain 9 times more lead than dairy versions

A new study has found that many popular protein powders and shakes may contain potentially dangerous levels of toxic heavy metals, including lead; But not all experts agree on how much of a risk they actually pose.

Consumer Reports tested 23 popular protein products and found that more than two-thirds contained more lead per serving than the store’s experts think is safe in a single day. Some had more than 10 times what some health experts consider a safe daily amount. according to the report It was published this week.

“We do not recommend daily use of most protein powders because many contain high levels of heavy metals, none of which are necessary to meet your protein goals,” said Tunde Akinleye, a chemist and food safety researcher at Consumer Reports.

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Plant-based products (especially those made with pea protein) were the worst offenders, being exposed to an average of nine times more lead than their dairy- and beef-based counterparts. The research included both ready-to-drink shakes and powders intended to be mixed into smoothies.

Some single servings contained 400% to 1,600% of Consumer Reports’ recommended daily limit of lead, or four to 16 times what is considered safe. For those slightly lower, experts recommended limiting consumption to once a week.

Many also contained measurable cadmium and arsenic; In some cases, cadmium levels were more than twice what public health authorities consider potentially harmful daily exposure.

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The research found that milk-based protein powders and shakes generally contain the lowest amounts of lead, but many still contain enough lead that Consumer Reports experts warn against daily use. Lead levels in beef-based products were, on average, about half that of plant-based products. Most fell below Consumer Reports’ daily concern level, but some exceeded it and experts say they’re safe for “occasional” consumption.

Many of the products they said were better choices for daily consumption were dairy products made using whey, a byproduct of the cheese-making process.

Protein powders and shakes are popular among fitness enthusiasts and athletes. (iStock)

The report states that no amount of lead is technically safe, but that the greatest danger arises from repeated or sustained exposure, especially at high doses, and that lead is especially risky for children, pregnant women and older adults.

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“If you use any of the products we tested or take protein supplements in general, there is no need to panic,” the report said. “Many of these powders are only available occasionally, and even those with the highest lead levels are well below the concentration needed to cause immediate harm.

“However, since most people don’t actually need protein supplements (nutritionists say the average American already gets plenty of protein), it’s reasonable to ask whether these products are worth more consideration.”

The Recommended Dietary Allowance (RDA) for protein is 46 grams for women and 56 grams for men. Active individuals may need nearly twice that amount, but experts say most people can easily meet their needs through food alone, despite the latest craze fueling the multibillion-dollar wellness trend marketed as a shortcut to building muscle.

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“The average adult doesn’t need a protein supplement to meet their daily quota,” said Lisa Moskovitz, a registered dietitian and founder of NY Nutrition Group in Manhattan. “However, at a time when protein intake is trending and all we hear about is the importance of consuming enough, many of my clients are incorporating protein powder into their protein powder more than ever before.”

Health experts recommend prioritizing protein intake from whole foods before supplements. (iStock)

If you’re looking for a protein supplement, Moskovitz recommends whey-based options, not only because of the lower lead levels, but also because whey is better absorbed and used by the body.

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Still, he and other experts say the alarm may be overblown.

Pennsylvania-based biomedical scientist Dr. Andrea Love described the research as “fearmongering” and stated that the lead levels detected were measured at parts per billion and were well below daily exposure limits considered safe for adults.

Moskovitz said the assessment was based on “extremely conservative and controversial parameters.” Still, he recommended choosing brands that have been third-party tested and show lower lead levels.

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He noted that long-term lead exposure can damage the brain and heart, while short-term symptoms can include nausea, vomiting, headaches and fatigue.

Health experts urge consumers to choose supplements that are third-party tested. (iStock)

He added that heavy metals occur naturally in the environment, and even everyday foods such as spices, dried fruits, rice and some vegetables can contain trace amounts absorbed from soil and water.

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“The FDA does not regulate supplements before they hit the market,” Moskovitz told Fox News Digital. “Therefore, it is always advisable to be careful, be aware, and consult a professional if you are unsure whether a product is safe.”