United States of America

Report: Two-Thirds of Analyzed Protein Powders Contain Unsafe Lead Levels

OCT 15 2025·Updated OCT 16 2025

#United States of America

Report: Two-Thirds of Analyzed Protein Powders Contain Unsafe Lead Levels

Story

Above: A person lifting a weight. Image credit: Unsplash

The Facts

Consumer Reports tested 23 protein powders and ready-to-drink shakes and found that more than two-thirds contained lead levels exceeding 0.5 micrograms per serving, which the organization considers unsafe for daily consumption.
Forbes
TODAY.com
Plant-based protein products contained approximately nine times more lead than dairy-based proteins and twice the amount found in beef-based products.
CBS News
Scripps News
Naked Nutrition's Vegan Mass Gainer powder contained 7.7 micrograms of lead per serving, while Huel's Black Edition protein powder had 6.3 micrograms. Consumer Reports advised avoiding these products entirely.
The New York Times
TODAY.com
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has established interim reference levels of 8.8 micrograms of lead per day for adults and women of childbearing age, and 2.2 micrograms for children. No federal limits exist for dietary supplements.
News Nation
TODAY.com
Company representatives from Huel and Naked Nutrition disputed the findings, stating their products comply with international safety standards and undergo rigorous testing through third-party certification programs.
CBS News
Consumer Reports
Consumer Reports launched a petition calling on the FDA to establish stronger limits on lead in protein supplements, noting that unlike prescription drugs, these products are not reviewed or approved before sale.
UPI
CBS News

Sources Split

LEFT

CENTER

RIGHT

ESTAB
CRIT

CENTER

PRO
ESTAB

The Spin

Narrative A

The protein powder heavy metals scare is overblown fear-mongering from untrustworthy studies. These reports lack peer review, transparent methodology and proper hazard assessments — classic red flags that scream emotional manipulation rather than science.

Forbes

CNET

Narrative B

Protein supplements pose serious health risks with lead contamination getting worse over 15 years. Two-thirds exceed safe levels, some by over 1,500%. Yet the FDA sets no limits and doesn't review these products before they hit shelves.