Desired muscles, but ended up with cancer: lead, arsenic, and mercury discovered in protein powders.

A recent report from the Clean Label Project has revealed alarming levels of toxic heavy metals in protein powders, with nearly 50% of the tested products exceeding safety thresholds. The study analyzed 160 products from 70 of the best-selling brands in the United States and found high concentrations of lead, cadmium, arsenic, and mercury—substances that pose serious health risks, according to Technology Networks.

Harmful metals can accumulate in the body over time, potentially leading to cognitive impairments, kidney damage, cancer, and developmental issues even at low levels of exposure. While protein powders are marketed as health-promoting, the report raises critical questions about the safety of these widely consumed products.

The report, published on the Clean Label Project website, utilized advanced testing methods such as inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS) to assess contamination in protein powders, along with an analysis of bisphenols like BPA and BPS. Bisphenols, such as BPA and BPS, are chemical compounds commonly used in plastics and resins that act as endocrine disruptors, interfering with hormone functions and posing risks to reproductive health, neurological development, and cancer.

The findings were alarming: 47% of products exceeded federal or state safety standards, while 21% surpassed the safety limits established by California Proposition 65.

Unexpectedly, organic and plant-based protein powders showed higher contamination levels than non-organic ones, containing on average three times more lead and five times more cadmium. Chocolate-flavored powders were the most affected, with metal concentrations significantly higher than those found in vanilla and other-flavored powders.

The source of these contaminants lies in the manufacturing processes and ingredient sourcing. Plant-based proteins, often derived from crops grown in industrially contaminated soils, tend to absorb heavy metals from the environment. Organic products, despite their "clean" reputation, are not immune to this issue.

However, there is a silver lining in the study: BPA levels in packaging have significantly decreased, indicating some progress in addressing consumer concerns regarding chemical exposure in health products. To tackle these issues, the Clean Label Project advocates for increased transparency and stricter safety standards in the protein powder industry.

Programs like the Purity Award and Transparency Certification aim to highlight brands that prioritize ingredient purity and provide detailed safety information. According to Jacqueline Bowen, executive director of the Clean Label Project, "The food industry has an obligation to provide its customers with open, honest, and transparent information about how clean their ingredients are. Consumers purchasing dietary supplements expect their products to be pure."

The data in the report points to a broader issue of environmental contamination in everyday consumer goods. Similar concerns have arisen in other sectors, with recent studies finding toxic metals in tampons and menstrual products. Consumers can also play a role by choosing certified products and advocating for industry-wide changes, the authors suggest.

At the same time, the market for protein powders in the United States alone was valued at $9.69 billion as of 2023, reflecting its immense popularity among individuals seeking benefits such as muscle gain and weight control.

This material is for informational purposes only and does not contain advice that may affect your health. If you experience any issues, consult a professional.