Protein Powders and Shakes Found to Contain High Levels of Lead, Consumer Reports Warns
Hidden Dangers Found in Popular Protein Supplements
Protein powders and shakes have become a go-to choice for many fitness enthusiasts, athletes, and even those seeking quick meal replacements. However, a shocking new Consumer Reports (CR) investigation has raised serious health concerns — revealing that several popular protein products contain dangerously high levels of lead.
The investigation tested 23 widely available protein powders and shakes, uncovering that over two-thirds contained more lead in a single serving than what experts deem safe for an entire day. In some cases, the contamination levels were alarmingly high — more than ten times the recommended limit.
Plant-Based Powders Show the Worst Results
The report highlighted that plant-based protein powders were the main offenders. According to CR, these powders contained nine times more lead than dairy-based options, and twice as much as beef-based supplements.
Among the worst performers were:
Naked Nutrition’s Vegan Mass Gainer – contained an estimated 1,570% of CR’s daily lead limit.
Huel’s Black Edition Vegan Powder – tested at over 1,200% of the recommended limit.
CR experts advised consumers to avoid these products entirely due to their concerning contamination levels.
Brands Respond to the Allegations
In response to the report, Huel issued a statement defending its products, saying its ingredients undergo “rigorous testing” and that the company is “confident in the current formulation and safety” of its powders.
Meanwhile, Naked Nutrition stated that it has ordered an independent third-party test of its Mass Gainer Supplement powder, adding, “We take our customers’ health very seriously.”
Dairy-Based Powders Show Lower Levels — But Still Not Perfect
CR’s Investigative Reporter Paris Martineau noted that while dairy-based protein powders and shakes had the lowest levels of lead, the results were still far from ideal.
“About half of the products we tested contained levels of lead or other contaminants that our experts advise not to use daily,” Martineau said.
This suggests that even “cleaner” protein sources may pose health risks when consumed too frequently.
Do You Really Need Protein Supplements?
Nutrition experts stress that most people do not need protein powders at all. Everyday foods such as:
Beans and lentils
Tofu and eggs
Fish, dairy, and lean meats
…already provide adequate protein for the average adult.
Unless prescribed for specific fitness or medical needs, whole foods remain the safer and healthier source of nutrients.
Consumer Reports’ Health Advice
Given the findings, Consumer Reports experts recommend limiting protein powder use — or avoiding it altogether. If you choose to use them, do so occasionally, not daily.
Interestingly, CR also pointed out that the nutrient most Americans lack isn’t protein, but fibre — which supports digestion and long-term health. Current U.S. dietary guidelines suggest adults should consume 22 to 34 grams of fibre per day, depending on age and sex.
Key Takeaways for Consumers
Over two-thirds of protein powders tested contained unsafe levels of lead.
Plant-based powders showed the highest contamination levels.
Brands such as Naked Nutrition and Huel were among those flagged for excessive lead content.
Experts recommend focusing on natural food sources of protein and limiting supplement use.
Consumers should read ingredient labels carefully and research independent test results before buying any protein product.
Conclusion
This investigation serves as a crucial reminder that not all “health” supplements are as safe as they seem. While protein powders may promise convenience and fitness benefits, unchecked contaminants like lead pose serious health risks over time.
For now, the best advice remains simple: get your protein from real food, not a scoop.
Sources:
Consumer Reports Investigation (2025)
U.S. Dietary Guidelines
Statements from Huel and Naked Nutrition
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