The Consumer Reports Protein Powder Investigation, titled 'Protein Powders and Shakes Contain High Levels of Lead', revealed, as the name suggests that some of the most popular and widely known protein powder were found with leads and other metal contents. The report was published on Tuesday, which analyzed 23 protein powder and shakes. The range included dairy, beef and plant-based protein supplements. The analysis found that more than two-thirds of the products contained more lead in a single serving than what experts consider to be safe, around 0.5 micrograms per day. Brian Ronholm, director of food policy at Consumer Reports in a news release said, "Protein powders and shakes have become immensely popular and are part of a daily routine for many people who are focused on consuming more protein in their diet. Protein powders and shakes have become immensely popular and are part of a daily routine for many people who are focused on consuming more protein in their diet."Lead Levels, Which Protein Powder Has The Most?On average, the lead levels in plant-based products were the highest. The report revealed that it was nine times the amount found in dairy-based proteins, like whey. When compared to beef-based products, the plant-based powders had twice as much lead in it. The Consumer Reports also published a list of products to avoid, among them, at the top were two plant-based protein powders by the brand Naked Nutrition Vegan Mass Gainer and Huel Black Edition. The former one contained 1,572% more lead than the level approved, while the latter one contained 1,288% over the approved level. The Consumer Report suggested that these powders should not be consumed at all, while for other products, it did provide the servings per week limit. The categories are: Products to AvoidRecommend Limiting to Once a WeekOkay to Eat Occasionally Better Choices for Daily ConsumptionThe Consumer Reports provided that Muscle Tech Mass Gainer showed no lead in its product, thus no limit was placed on it. How Was The Test Conducted?The Consumer Reports in its report writes that they purchased multiple samples of each product, including two to four distinct lots, over a three-month period beginning last November. These products were brought anonymously from online retailers and food stores. The samples from multiple lot were tested for levels of protein, arsenic, cadmium, lead, and other elements. However the report notes: "the results are based on an average of these samples, which were collected over a specific period of time, they may not mirror current contaminant levels in every product. Even so, the findings highlight why consumers should carefully consider the role of protein powders and shakes in their diet."How Did The Protein Powder Companies Respond?7 of the 23 companies did not respond for comments, but those who responded said that lead is a naturally occurring element that is difficult to avoid, especially in plant-based products. Eight companies, namely: Equip Foods, Garden of Life, KOS, Momentous, Muscle Meds, Muscle Tech, Orgain, and Vega, said they test both their ingredients and finished products for heavy metals.
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