Summary

A Clean Label Project report found concerning levels of lead and cadmium in protein powders, especially plant-based, organic, and chocolate-flavored varieties.

Nearly 80% of plant-based products exceeded California’s Proposition 65 safety limits for lead, with chocolate-flavored powders containing up to 110 times more cadmium than vanilla.

Heavy metals naturally occur in soil but can be elevated by industrial contamination.

While BPA and BPS contamination has decreased since 2018, 47% of powders tested still exceeded Prop 65 limits.

Experts recommend whey-based or pea protein powders for lower contamination levels.