Toxic heavy metals are present in protein powders for building muscle mass in quantities that far exceed safe limits
A recent study conducted by the non-profit organization Clean Label Project highlighted a worrying problem: the presence of toxic heavy metalssuch as lead and cadmium, in a wide range of Protein powders widely used for muscle building.
The analysis, which involved 160 products from 70 industry-leading brands, revealed that many of these supplements exceed safety limits established by California Proposition 65. In particular, the study found that protein powders plant-basedoften considered healthier choices, contain significantly higher levels of contaminants than whey-based ones.
Data shows that plant proteins such as rice, peas and soy can contain up to three times more lead compared to their non-vegetable counterparts. Furthermore the organic protein powdersgenerally perceived as safer, were found to be among the most toxic, with significantly high concentrations of lead and cadmium.
The warning about chocolate-flavoured protein powders
Another surprising discovery concerns the Chocolate flavored protein powderswhich have levels of cadmium up to 110 times higher and lead up to four times higher compared to vanilla flavored products. This increase in contamination is attributed to the nature of cocoa, an ingredient known to absorb heavy metals from the soil.
Contamination of protein powders mainly arises from the use of raw materials of plant origin grown in soil contaminated by industrial activities or unsafe agricultural practicessuch as the use of pesticides and fertilizers. These factors contribute to increasing the presence of heavy metals in the final products.
The health impacts of lead and cadmium are serious. According to the United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), lead can cause neurological damage, developmental problems in children and impairment of vital organs. Cadmium is classified as carcinogenic and can cause damage to the heart, kidneys and respiratory system, as well as negatively affecting reproductive health.
Despite the concern about heavy metals, the report fortunately found one significant decrease in the presence of bisphenolschemical compounds known to be endocrine disruptors. In 2024, only three of 160 products tested contained bisphenols, compared to 55% in 2018.
