(NaturalHealth365)  Protein supplements are a big business in the United States.  In 2023, the market exceeded $9.69 billion.  As more people strive to improve their health, lose weight, and get more fit, this figure is expected to continue climbing.

The general consensus among consumers is that protein supplements are “natural,” and since they are typically found in health food stores and wellness sites, then they must be safe.  But are they?

The Clean Label Project’s Protein Category analyzed 160 products from 70 of the leading brands for protein supplements.  The 2024-25 Protein Powder Category Report provides vital data regarding some concerning ingredients and potential contaminants that consumers should know before taking them.  The results are eye-opening.  An alarming 47% of the products tested exceeded the toxic metal safety threshold set forth by California Proposition 65.

In simple terms, most of the protein supplements tested were potentially unsafe.

Understanding proposition 65: Context for the findings

To put the findings in context, you have to understand Proposition 65.  This California law has a list of chemicals maintained by the state.  These chemicals are believed to cause reproductive harm or cancer in humans.  Businesses must place warning labels on foods containing these chemicals at levels that exceed the “safe” levels set forth by the law.

The Proposition 65 list contains many synthetic and natural chemicals commonly found as ingredients or additives in solvents, dyes, household products, pesticides, drugs, and food.  These chemicals may be used in manufacturing or as a byproduct of a chemical process, such as fumes or exhaust.

Key findings from the study

The study tested 160 products from 70 popular brands for 258 heavy metals and chemicals, focusing on heavy metals and bisphenols.  The analysis yielded a total of 35,863 findings.

• 47% of all tested products exceeded state or federal safety regulations, including Proposition 65.
• 21% of all products contained more than double the acceptable levels of lead as defined by Proposition 65.
• Organic protein powders:
  • 79% exceeded Proposition 65 levels for lead.
  • 41% contained over twice the acceptable levels of lead.
• Plant-based protein powders:
  • 77% exceeded Proposition 65 levels for lead.
• Whey protein powders:
  • 28% exceeded Proposition 65 levels for lead.
• Collagen protein powders:
  • 26% exceeded Proposition 65 levels for lead.
• Chocolate protein powders:
  • 65% exceeded Proposition 65 levels for lead.
  • 29% contained over twice the acceptable levels of lead.

These findings highlight significant safety concerns regarding heavy metal contamination in protein powders, particularly in organic, plant-based, and chocolate varieties.

What should you look for in a protein powder?

The analysis revealed that plant-based protein powders had the highest levels of contaminants, while whey-based protein powders showed the lowest levels.  If you’re looking for a safer option, choosing a product with minimal contaminants is key.

For added peace of mind, consider buying from Clean Label Project Certified companies.  Some trusted brands include:

• Genetic Nutrition
• Gorilla Formula 23
• Nutrabox
• Oziva
• Puori
• Ritual
• Wellbeing Nutrition
• Wicked Protein

You can also visit the Clean Label Project website to learn about more certified products and make informed health choices.

Editor’s note: I highly recommend LuvByNature Grazing Goat Whey Protein – which comes from goats that graze – 365 days per year – on pesticide and chemical free pastures.  No hormones, antibiotics or pesticides are used – ever.  This product is non-GMO and gluten free.

Sources for this article include:

Cleanlabelproject.org
Health.com
Oehha.ca.gov