A Consumer Reports investigation found that many protein powders contain dangerous levels of lead, some exceeding safe limits.

Consumer Reports published an investigation showing that over a dozen tested protein powders contain concerning levels of lead. Of the 23 products analyzed, more than two-thirds exceed the limit of 0.5 micrograms of lead considered safe for daily consumption. Additionally, two of the tested powders were so contaminated that the association recommends completely avoiding them.

Tunde Akinleye, a researcher at Consumer Reports, emphasized that the daily use of most protein powders is discouraged due to the high content of heavy metals, and consumers do not need these supplements to achieve their nutritional goals. The popularity of protein-rich foods has increased, but experts warn that excessive protein intake is unnecessary and that expensive powders are not an effective solution.