It’s a question many of us ponder while reaching for that tub of protein powder: is it truly as beneficial as it seems? We often associate these supplements with fitness goals and healthy living, but a recent investigation has brought a concerning element to light – lead.
Consumer Reports, a name many trust for unbiased product testing, recently delved into the world of protein powders and ready-to-drink shakes. What they found was, frankly, a bit unsettling. Out of 23 popular products tested, a significant majority – about 70% – contained lead levels exceeding their established level of concern, which is set at 0.5 micrograms per day. To put that into perspective, the average American adult already consumes about 5.3 micrograms of lead daily through their diet, according to a 2019 FDA analysis. This means some protein powders could be adding a substantial amount to that daily intake.
This isn't the first time Consumer Reports has looked into this. They tested protein powders about 15 years ago, and sadly, the results this time around are even more concerning. "It’s concerning that these results are even worse than the last time we tested," shared Tunde Akinleye, the food safety researcher who spearheaded the project. He went on to advise against daily use for most protein powders, noting that many harbor high levels of heavy metals and, importantly, aren't even necessary to meet your protein needs.
It’s worth remembering that unlike medications, supplements like protein powders don't undergo the same rigorous review or testing by the FDA before they hit the shelves. This regulatory gap means the onus often falls on us, the consumers, to be informed.
So, what does this mean for your favorite scoop? Consumer Reports categorized the tested products based on their lead content per serving, offering guidance on how often they might be consumed. Some products were flagged for avoidance altogether due to extremely high levels, like Naked Nutrition Vegan Mass Gainer (1,572% of the concern level) and Huel Black Edition (1,288%). Others were recommended for occasional use, perhaps once a week, such as Garden of Life Sport Organic Plant-Based Protein (564%) and Momentous 100% Plant Protein (476%).
For those products deemed 'OK to eat occasionally,' the lead levels ranged from 112% to 247% of the concern level. This includes brands like Optimum Nutrition, MuscleMeds Carnivor Mass, and Vega Premium Sport Plant-Based Protein.
On the brighter side, a few products were identified as better choices for daily consumption, with lead levels below the 100% concern mark. These included Owyn Pro Elite High Protein Shake (88%) and Transparent Labs Mass Gainer (87%). And in a welcome discovery, Muscle Tech 100% Mass Gainer was found to have no detectable lead.
When approached, many manufacturers acknowledged that lead is a naturally occurring element, particularly difficult to avoid in plant-based products, and stated their products undergo testing for safety. Some companies, however, did not respond to Consumer Reports' inquiries.
If you've been using these products, the testers at Consumer Reports assure us there's no need to panic. Many are still fine for occasional enjoyment, and even those with higher levels might be suitable for infrequent consumption. The key takeaway is awareness and making informed choices about what we put into our bodies, especially when it comes to supplements that are meant to enhance our well-being.
