Last fall, Consumer Reports tested dozens of protein powders and ready-to-drink shakes. What the lab found raised red flags: more than two-thirds contained more lead in one serving than CR’s food-safety experts say is safe in a full day.
That investigation sparked a wave of concern from readers. According to CR investigative reporter Paris Martineau, many people wanted to know whether other protein powders on the market posed similar risks.
In response, Consumer Reports tested five reader-requested chocolate protein powders: Clean Simple Eats, Equate from Walmart, Premier Protein, Ritual, and Truvani. This time, the results were notably different. All five powders contained low levels of lead, meeting CR’s threshold for safe daily or near-daily consumption.
On average, these products also had lower levels of lead and arsenic than the powders tested in CR’s earlier investigation.
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Still, the findings raise broader questions about why so many other protein powders continue to contain higher levels of heavy metals. Martineau points out that there are currently no federal limits for lead in protein powder. While the FDA requires manufacturers to keep products free of harmful contaminants, companies largely decide for themselves what counts as harmful and how often their products are tested.
Nutrition experts note that most people don’t actually need protein supplements. Many everyday foods—such as beans, tofu, eggs, dairy, fish, and lean meats—can easily meet protein needs. But for those who do rely on protein powders, Consumer Reports advises caution. “Healthy” doesn’t always mean risk-free, and using protein powders occasionally rather than daily may help reduce exposure.
Consumer Reports also reminds consumers that while protein gets plenty of attention, fiber is the nutrient most adults are missing. The Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics recommends about 25 grams of fiber per day for women and 38 grams for men, depending on age and other factors.