The Real Story on Lead in Protein Powders

You may have seen recent headlines claiming that “most protein powders contain dangerous levels of lead.” The Consumer Reports article published this week has understandably caused concern — but the truth is far less alarming.

At ViaCore Nutrition, we believe in transparency, science, and manufacturing integrity — not fear-based headlines. Here’s what you should know.

What the Report Said and What It Missed

Consumer Reports tested 23 protein powders and shakes and claimed that many “exceeded safe limits” for lead and other heavy metals. What wasn’t made clear is that their testing was based on California’s Proposition 65, which limits lead to 0.5 micrograms per day, a level 25 times lower than the thresholds recognized by the FDA.

To put that in perspective:

• Prop 65 limits are roughly 25× stricter than FDA safety levels.
• The trace levels detected are naturally occurring, often found in foods like spinach, carrots, and other root vegetables.
• Modern lab technology can detect metals at parts per billion, but detection does not mean danger.
• As the Natural Products Association (NPA) noted, “Science — not scare tactics — should guide public health.”
• The Council for Responsible Nutrition (CRN) reaffirmed that “Detection does not equal danger.”

How We Ensure Quality and Safety

Every product we manufacture is produced in our FDA-registered, NSF-certified, cGMP (current Good Manufacturing Practices) facility — the highest standard in the supplement industry for quality, purity, and safety.

Each batch follows a strict, multi-step quality protocol that includes:

• Organoleptic testing — visual, smell, and taste verification
• Microbial testing — screening for E. coli, Salmonella, yeast, and mold
• Heavy metal testing — quantitative analysis for lead (Pb), arsenic (As), cadmium (Cd), and mercury (Hg)
• Analytical verification — confirming ingredient identity and potency using validated methods such as FTIR

All results are fully documented and maintained under our NSF and FDA cGMP quality system. Our testing program ensures every ingredient and finished product meets or exceeds industry and regulatory standards.

Why This Matters

Heavy metals like lead occur naturally in soil, air, and water, meaning plants absorb trace amounts as they grow. These minute quantities are not contaminants introduced during manufacturing. Our testing consistently confirms that ViaCore products are well below FDA-established safety limits, including those applied to infant and children’s foods.

By maintaining full control of our manufacturing process and testing every batch, we ensure that safety, purity, and performance remain at the core of every formulation.

Our Commitment to You

You can trust that every product we produce is:

• Manufactured in our NSF-certified, FDA-registered, cGMP facility
• Tested for heavy metals
• Verified for purity, identity, and potency
• Backed by transparency and data-driven quality assurance

If your customers have questions, you can confidently share: “Our products are tested for heavy metals, and our lead levels are well below FDA safety limits.”

In Summary

Protein powders manufactured under NSF-certified cGMP standards and verified through routine heavy metal testing remain safe, compliant, and trustworthy.

At ViaCore Nutrition, we stand behind every product we produce, and the science that supports it.

Quality isn’t a claim. It’s our commitment.