Careful! There’s Lead in Your Protein Powder

I’ve long shared my concerns about plant-based protein, and a recent Consumer Reports investigation adds a new one: lead. After testing 23 protein powders, CR found that more than two-thirds contained more lead per serving than their experts consider safe for daily intake. Some servings contained between 1,200 and 1,600% of CR’s level of concern (0.5 micrograms per day), and two others had 400–600% of that level. 

Even more concerning? The results were “even worse than the last time we tested,” according to Tunde Akinleye, the CR food safety researcher who led the testing project. Here’s what the researchers found:

There isn’t a technically “safe” amount of lead—the most concerning factor is how frequently you are exposed to it. Continuous exposure, especially at high doses, is not safe, particularly for pregnant women and children—the most vulnerable groups, as lead can damage the developing brain and nervous system, potentially causing neurological issues, learning delays, and behavioral problems. Chronic lead exposure is also linked to immune suppression, reproductive problems, kidney damage, and high blood pressure in adults. CR also found three products that exceeded their level of concern for cadmium and inorganic arsenic—toxic heavy metals classified as probable or known human carcinogens. Two of the plant-based powders contained so much lead that CR’s experts advised against consuming them at all.

Part of the problem is how plant protein is made. Unlike whey, a natural by-product of cheese, plant proteins—especially pea protein—require extraction using high heat and chemicals. This process can introduce contaminants and create issues for consumers. Pea protein is increasingly found in foods like plant-based milks, yogurts, and cheeses, so frequent consumption can create problems, as evidenced by the rise in food allergies in children, as noted by pediatric allergists.

Between heavy metals, processing issues, and allergenic potential, the results are clear: plant protein powders can be very unhealthy, even toxic. In contrast, dairy-based protein powders, like whey, had the lowest amounts of lead and tested far safer.

Of course, not all whey proteins are created equal—something I was well aware of when I first started looking for my perfect whey protein powder—and I’m so proud to see B.rad Whey Protein + Creatine included on Michael Kummer’s list of The 10 Best Natural Protein Powders. Thanks, Michael for appreciating our high-quality, grass-fed whey protein isolate (not concentrate) that ensures optimal bioavailability and nutrient integrity. Michael also noted the inclusion of creatine monohydrate to enhance the supplement’s benefits, calling it “highly effective for improving exercise performance and recovery.”

B.rad Whey Protein is available on Amazon and at B.radNutrition in four flavors (unflavored, vanilla bean, peanut butter and cocoa bean).