How The Best Protein Powders Avoid Heavy Metal Contamination
Plant-based protein powders can contain heavy metals, as recent media reports have warned. Learn why they are there and how the best protein powders avoid them.
Author:Daniel JamesReviewer:Karan EmeryDec 15, 2025717 Shares79.6K Views
In January 2025, CNN reportedthat a Clean Label Project study found heavy metal contamination in a wide range of over-the-counter protein powders. The study, which involved 83 percent of the US protein supplement market, revealed that “a staggering 47 percent exceeded California Proposition 65safety thresholds for toxic metals.”
The report was bad news for many in the industry, but especially those companies offering plant-based powders. Its findings showed that 77 percent of plant-based protein powders had dangerously high levels of lead, whereas only 28 percent of the whey protein powders tested during the study showed high lead levels.
“I'm pleased the CNN article came out because it reveals an ugly truth about the industry, which is that a lot of protein powders are high in heavy metals and aren't tested properly,” says Josh Malin, co-owner of RISE311.
RISE311 is a company that produces and sells plant-based protein powders. Unlike some others in the industry, however, Malin did not see the report as bad news.
“I hope it causes a lot of people to take a closer look at their protein source, because nobody wants to be taking a supplement to improve their health only to learn that it's doing the exact opposite for them,” he says.
Malin co-founded RISE311 with Jason Walsh, one of the most sought-after celebrity trainers in the entertainment industry. Their purpose was to provide the first and only craft protein designed to meet the real performance and recovery needs of working professionals, athletes, and anyone serious about results. Frustrated by a supplement industry flooded with underperforming, over-processed formulas, the RISE311 team developed a small-batch, plant-based protein that’s easy to digest, delivers 30 grams of complete protein per serving, and actually tastes good.
“We know the report raised a lot of questions, because our users have been reaching out to us for help,” Malin says. “It's scary stuff. Those heavy metals can lead to issues with your liver, brain function, and a whole lot of other nastiness. Before moving ahead with using them, consumers should learn why some plant proteins have heavy metals in them and how they can identify protein powder that's made with clean ingredients.”
Why Some Plant-based Protein Powders Are High In Heavy Metals
The Clean Label Project report on heavy metals lists several reasons why protein powders may contain harmful chemicals, including environmental exposure, agricultural practices, and packaging materials. Malin believes the problem with contamination in plant-based powders can be blamed mainly on heavy metals in soil.
“The plants that provide plant-based proteins absorb heavy metals from the soil they’re grown in,” Malin explains. “So, if a powder is grown in a soil that is high in heavy metals, the resulting plant — and the protein powder made from that plant — will be high in heavy metals.”
Heavy metals can enter soil through various sources, including emissions from vehicles or industrial processing plants. Certain commercial fertilizers and pesticides can also introduce heavy metals into soil. Even irrigation of farmland can be responsible if wastewater from industrial sources is used.
What To Know To Find The Best Protein Powder
As consumers begin to explore the protein powder market, they’ll discover a dizzying array of protein options. There are plant-based powders — typically made with pea protein, brown rice protein, or soy protein — as well as non-plant-based, which typically use whey protein, casein protein, or collagen protein.
Each category also offers protein isolate powders, which essentially provide a more concentrated form of protein. Those looking to support muscle growth often opt for whey isolate powders. To make the choice even more difficult, consumers also need to choose from a variety of quality levels, such as organic plant-based or grass-fed whey, as well as an array of protein powder flavors, such as coconut açaí, Madagascar vanilla, or chocolate peanut butter.
The threat of heavy metals adds yet another consideration to protein powder selection. Malin advises consumers to pay close attention to the source of the protein in the powder they use.
“Track down products that rely on protein grown on high-quality farmland in the USA, as those sourced from overseas can be grown on soil that is heavily polluted with toxic chemicals,” Malin advises. “Those that use premium pea protein or barley protein are also preferable as those sources are naturally lower in heavy metals.”
Malin also warns that flavor is a consideration when choosing clean protein. The Clean Label study confirmed this warning, revealing that chocolate-flavored powders contained four times more lead than vanilla-flavored powders.
“Cocoa can naturally contain heavy metals,” Malin explains. “Choosing powders that use high-quality proteins can be one way to avoid cocoa-based chemicals, as they can provide a satisfying chocolate taste with a smaller amount of cocoa.”
The recent CNN report is not the first to warn of heavy metal contamination in protein powders. In 2022, Harvard Healthshared a similar warning based on an earlier study by the Clean Label Project. The fact that the issue persists indicates the majority of protein powder producers aren't taking steps to ensure the protein they use is safe. Consequently, consumers must use extra care when selecting powders, doing the research needed to identify high-quality, cleanly sourced products that are free of contaminants.
Daniel James
Author
Daniel James is a distinguished gerontologist, author, and professional coach known for his expertise in health and aging.
With degrees from Georgia Tech and UCLA, including a diploma in gerontology from the University of Boston, Daniel brings over 15 years of experience to his work.
His credentials also include a Professional Coaching Certification, enhancing his credibility in personal development and well-being.
In his free time, Daniel is an avid runner and tennis player, passionate about fitness, wellness, and staying active.
His commitment to improving lives through health education and coaching reflects his passion and dedication in both professional and personal endeavors.
Karan Emery
Reviewer
Karan Emery, an accomplished researcher and leader in health sciences, biotechnology, and pharmaceuticals, brings over two decades of experience to the table. Holding a Ph.D. in Pharmaceutical Sciences from Stanford University, Karan's credentials underscore her authority in the field.
With a track record of groundbreaking research and numerous peer-reviewed publications in prestigious journals, Karan's expertise is widely recognized in the scientific community.
Her writing style is characterized by its clarity and meticulous attention to detail, making complex scientific concepts accessible to a broad audience. Apart from her professional endeavors, Karan enjoys cooking, learning about different cultures and languages, watching documentaries, and visiting historical landmarks.
Committed to advancing knowledge and improving health outcomes, Karan Emery continues to make significant contributions to the fields of health, biotechnology, and pharmaceuticals.
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