Lead Found in Popular Protein Powders, Report Warns

New research by Consumer Reports has revealed alarming findings about the safety of protein powders widely consumed across the U.S.

Out of 23 tested products, more than two-thirds contained lead levels exceeding the daily safety threshold of 0.5 micrograms in just one serving.

The report shows contamination is getting worse compared to previous years, especially among plant-based powders, which were found to contain nine times more heavy metals than dairy proteins and double those found in beef-based products.

Tunde Akinleye, a food safety researcher who led the study, warned that consumers “have more to lose than gain” from daily use of these supplements, emphasizing that whole foods can easily meet protein goals without the toxic risks.

As protein powders continue to dominate the wellness and fitness markets, the findings are raising urgent concerns about regulation, transparency, and the growing health risks hidden behind “clean” nutrition labels.