A recent investigation by Consumer Reports has uncovered alarming levels of lead in certain protein supplements, raising safety concerns and encouraging a discussion on healthier protein alternatives. Lisa Reed, a health and fitness educator, highlights the crucial role of protein in diets, particularly for women over the age of 40, and suggests that protein powders can effectively complement other protein sources such as meat, fish, and beans.
WATCH LISA REED ON GULF COAST NEWS IN THE VIDEO BELOW:
Sana Mujahid, a member of the Consumer Reports team that tested 23 different protein products, stated, “Protein powders and shakes have gained immense popularity, with previous reports indicating contamination from heavy metals in these items.” She further commented, “We were taken aback by the results; the lead levels in these products were even greater than those we discovered a decade ago.”
The investigation pinpointed Naked Nutrition Vegan Mass Gainer Vanilla and Huel Black Edition Chocolate as containing the highest lead levels. Mujahid pointed out, “The good news is that only two products have made it onto our avoid list.”
Naked Nutrition responded, stating:
“Naked Nutrition is aware of the recent Consumer Reports findings regarding heavy metals in protein powders. We take our customers’ health and product transparency very seriously and have thoroughly examined the findings.”
“It’s worth noting that Naked Vegan Mass was the only vegan weight gainer included in the Consumer Reports testing. As a weight gainer, it comes in a substantially larger serving size—approximately 315 grams, or around six scoops—compared to the typical 30 to 50 grams found in standard protein powders. This variance means that comparing ‘per serving’ data across products with such different serving sizes leads to misleading comparisons. However, when assessed on a per-gram basis, our results align with other plant-based protein products.”
“Elements like lead naturally occur in the Earth’s crust; trace amounts can be found in plant-based ingredients globally. Since plants absorb minerals and elements from the soil, negligible levels of heavy metals can be present in nearly all plant-derived foods and proteins, even in certified organic products, regardless of brand or country of origin.”
“While Consumer Reports did not disclose its complete lab data, we analyzed the available information and corroborated results through independent third-party testing, which confirmed that no heavy metals surpass FDA reference intake levels for adults, including vulnerable groups such as women of childbearing age.”
“All Naked Nutrition ingredients come from select suppliers who provide Certificates of Analysis, including heavy metals testing. We also hold samples from every production lot for ongoing evaluations, and Naked Vegan Mass Gainer is currently undergoing NSF Content Certification, which incorporates label-claim, toxicology, and contaminant testing.”
“Naked Nutrition remains wholly dedicated to transparency, science-based quality standards, and delivering safe, high-quality nutrition products that meet or exceed all U.S. safety regulations.”
Huel also issued a response:
“Lead levels in Huel Black Edition (1.5–2.2 µg per serving) fall within the range typically found in everyday meals and comply with all international safety standards. Independent testing verifies that lead and other trace minerals in Huel are significantly below global safety thresholds, including those set by FDA, NSF, and the EU/UK. Each batch undergoes rigorous testing by accredited labs to ensure full compliance and transparency.”
You can find Huel’s website dedicated to lead concerns here.
Lead is a naturally occurring element found in the Earth’s crust, and plants can absorb it during their growth, which can then be transferred to animals. The World Health Organization warns that excessive exposure to lead can result in long-term damage, including high blood pressure, cardiovascular issues, and kidney injury, and can impact fetal growth during pregnancy. Mujahid stressed, “Research indicates that there is, in fact, no safe level of lead exposure.”
To mitigate lead exposure while maintaining adequate protein intake, Reed suggests incorporating foods like chicken, turkey, lean red meats, eggs, fish, and dairy products such as Greek yogurt and cottage cheese. She recommends consuming protein shakes sparingly: “Aim for one protein shake per day at most.”
Dr. Loureen Downes from Florida Gulf Coast University’s nursing program advises focusing on the outer aisles of grocery stores for nutrient-rich vegetables and minimizing processed foods commonly found in the inner aisles.
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