Recent Report discloses the presence of Lead and Cadmium in Protein Powders. How Much Should You Worry?

The popularity of Protein powder as a supplement is evident in its ability to help individuals build muscle and meet their macronutrient targets, with figures as low as 73%.  

The safety of supplements has been called into question by a recent report, which found that many protein powders contain hazardous levels of cadmium and lead 1.

Brain and central nervous system damage, as well as developmental problems in children, are caused by lead, while cadmium can affect kidney function, bone health, and increase the likelihood of certain cancers 2. 3.

The Clean Label Project, a nonprofit organization that examines products for environmental and industrial contaminants, discovered The greatest concentration of metals in plant-based, organic, and chocolate-flavored powders

While this news is certainly not ideal, you may be left wondering how concerned you are and whether it’s time to explore alternative protein sources. The experts’ opinions are as follows

What was the conclusion drawn from the Report?

The Clean Label Project gathered 160 protein powder products from 70 prominent brands that were purchased by Researchers. The company refrained from disclosing the names of the items purchased and scrutinized.)

After receiving samples, an independent laboratory conducted tests on almost 36,000 samples containing 258 contaminants, which included heavy metals, phthalates, perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoridyl substances, and bisphenols BP An and BP S

Only three protein powders were found to have BP An and BP S in the study conducted by the organization, which is a significant decrease from the previous 2018 study

However, this was not the case for heavy metals. The researchers found that 47% of the protein powder samples were in excess of certain lead and cadmium limits prescribed by Proposition 65, a law that requires businesses to notify Californians about their significant exposure to chemicals that can cause cancer, birth defects, or other reproductive issues 4. Over 20% of levels were contained, which is twice the level of Prop 65 guidance 1.

Generally speaking, heavy metals were more likely to be found In organic products, with three times more lead and twice as many cadmium than In non-organic products. Some protein powders made with chocolate had a higher cadmium content than those made without chocolate, with the concentration increasing to 110 times that of vanilla-flavored powder 1.

The report highlights the importance of this study for consumers, manufacturers, retailers, and regulators

Criticism of the Report

The report has some limitations, but they’re worth it nonetheless. The Clean Label Project’s reports are often lacking in crucial information, which could lead to misleading statements that undermine consumer confidence Andrea Wong, PhD , of the Council for Responsible Nutrition, a trade association for the dietary supplement and functional food industry, told Health

Jeff Ventura , the Council for Responsible Nutrition’s vice president of communications, insinuated that the Clean Label Project may have financial motivation for producing critical reports.  

The Clean Label Project provides certification to Companies that meet certain standards, and Companies pay a fee to have their products evaluated. Ventura stated that Organizations such as this operate certification and award programs, which are then sold to the same industries they criticize Health The benefits of these arrangements are that they increase consumer apprehension about the products, which in turn encourages more companies to invest in testing and research. ”

But Bowen pushed back at those allegations

“Our reports are designed to raise awareness about important public health issues and drive meaningful change in the industry, not to serve as a revenue source, ” she told Health , noting that participation in the organization’s certification program is voluntary. “Any revenue generated through the certification program supports CL P ’s continued research, advocacy, and public education efforts. ”

What Should You Do?

The report’s value is determined by The individuals you ask. According to Darin Detwiler, LP D The Author of “Food Safety: Past, Present, and Predictions” and a professor at Northeastern University suggests that the finding should not concern the general public

The speaker noted that the supply chain is prone to systemic risks, as heavy metals are frequently introduced into food supply via polluted soil, water, or processing equipment, particularly in imported ingredients Health Heavy metal exposure in small quantities can result in serious health consequences, including developmental delays and chronic diseases in adults. ” 

But Jamie Alan, PhD , an associate professor of pharmacology and toxicology at Michigan State University, told Health Although the findings are important, there is likely no cause for panic

Despite the lack of a safe level of lead, our body can handle low levels of heavy metals, as per her statement. The impact on your health may not be significant If you are not getting enough protein powders to meet your daily calorie needs. ”

There are no federal limits for the amount of lead and cadmium in most foods. But Johnson-Arbor noted that, generally speaking” state-specific heavy metal regulations used by the Clean Project Label, like California’s Proposition 65, can be much more conservative “than federal guidance on acceptable contaminant levels

Instead of avoiding protein powder entirely, Detwiler suggests choosing products tested by verified third parties, such as the Clean Label Project or NS FC ertified for Sport. “Regular consumers of protein powder should research brands that demonstrate transparency about their sourcing and safety practices, ” he said

Bowen agreed: “While it’s wise to be mindful, ” she said, “the good news is that small, incremental changes—like choosing brands that prioritize rigorous testing for heavy metals—can make a big difference. ”

The majority of individuals do not need to depend on protein supplements to meet the recommended daily intake, despite concerns. Experts generally suggest getting Protein Instead of supplements, we can eat whole foods like lean meats, eggs, and legumes. These foods are less prone to contamination, as noted by Detwiler, which is A positive aspect

Detwiler advised contacting your doctor for heavy metal testing. Alan expressed that if it’s impossible, he wouldn’t be let down by it. If you have new or concerning symptoms, inform your doctor and try to minimize your risk in a medically safe manner. ”