High Lead Levels Found in Protein Powders and Shakes

Recent testing has raised concerns about high lead levels in various protein powders and shakes. The analysis covered 23 products, some of which were manufactured by notable brands. Several companies provided explanations in response to the findings, indicating that lead is often a naturally occurring contaminant in plant-based products.

Key Findings from Protein Powder Testing

Seven manufacturers, including BSN and Muscle Milk, did not respond to inquiries regarding the test results. Optimum Nutrition declined to comment, while Huel did not clarify the cadmium levels in its product.

Responses from Manufacturers

• Eight companies—Equip Foods, Garden of Life, KOS, Momentous, Muscle Meds, Muscle Tech, Orgain, and Vega—assert they test for heavy metals in their ingredients and products.
• A Huel spokesperson emphasized rigorous testing for their ingredients, asserting product safety.
• James Clark from Naked Nutrition mentioned that the company sources ingredients from vetted suppliers to ensure quality and safety.
• Abbott, the maker of Ensure, stated that the lead levels found in its shakes are low for plant protein-based products.
• Quest claimed that the detected lead levels demonstrate the effectiveness of their food safety programs.

Regulatory Compliance and Testing

Vega highlighted its adherence to California Proposition 65, which allows companies to meet specific safety standards regarding harmful chemicals. The company has faced penalties totaling approximately $336,000 over the years for non-compliance regarding heavy metals.

Changes in Sourcing and Formulations

• Earlier this year, Vega rebranded its plant-based protein powder and revamped its sourcing strategies, opting for North American pea protein over that from China.
• Momentous has undergone a significant product overhaul to enhance ingredient sourcing and improve formulation safety.

Industry Standards and Recommendations

Garden of Life and Orgain maintained their products are safe, adhering to food safety standards outlined by the FDA and other regulatory organizations. However, there are currently no established limits for lead in protein powders.

• The EPA sets an action level for lead in tap water at 10 parts per billion, while the WHO advises that no level of lead is safe for regular consumption.
• The EFSA allows up to 3,000 ppb of lead in food supplements, a threshold deemed excessively high by some health experts.

Certification and Safety Measures

Companies like Momentous and Vega undergo independent testing to comply with National Science Foundation (NSF) standards. The NSF enforces strict limits for contaminants, including a maximum of 10 micrograms of lead per day.

FDA Involvement

The FDA monitors contaminants in protein products as part of its compliance program. A spokesperson for the agency noted that they will analyze the findings from recent tests to guide future enforcement actions.

Overall, the testing highlights relevant concerns regarding safety and transparency in the protein supplement industry, urging consumers to be informed about the potential risks associated with high lead levels in their dietary choices.