A 2025 Consumer Reports investigation tested 23 protein powders and ready-to-drink shakes and found that more than two-thirds of the products contained more lead per single serving than Consumer Reports' "level of concern" of 0.5 micrograms of lead per day (a threshold based on California Proposition 65).
October 16, 2025
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Laboratory testing of protein powders and ready-to-drink shakes for lead contamination; Consumer Reports defined a level of concern based on California Proposition 65.
A 2025 Consumer Reports investigation reported that plant-based protein powders had, on average, nine times higher lead levels than dairy-based protein powders and approximately twice the lead levels of beef-based protein powders.
October 16, 2025
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Comparative average lead concentrations across protein powder types measured by Consumer Reports.
A 2025 Consumer Reports analysis of 23 powder and ready-to-drink protein products used the California Office of Environmental Health Hazard Assessment's 0.5 micrograms-per-day threshold and found that 16 of 23 products exceeded 0.5 micrograms of lead per serving, four of 23 exceeded 2.2 micrograms of lead per serving, and two products contained 72% and 88% respectively of the FDA's total daily lead amount for pregnant people.
October 14, 2025
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Core statistical findings from Consumer Reports' 2025 testing of protein powder and ready-to-drink products, using an OEHHA threshold and compared to FDA benchmarks.
Cinnamon, which is derived from the inner bark of several tree species, can absorb lead from contaminated soil and can also become contaminated by processing equipment, storage containers, or packaging.
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process
Mechanisms by which lead can enter cinnamon during cultivation and handling.
Lead exposure can cause serious adverse effects on the developing brain and nervous system, with particular risk during pregnancy and in young children.
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health
General public-health consequence of lead exposure.