Clean Label Project’s Protein Powder Study: What You Need to Know

Should You Be Worried About Protein Powder? Let’s Take a Closer Look

When you grab a protein powder off the shelf, you probably assume it’s safe, pure, and good for your body—but should you?

A recent post by Dr. Mark Hyman, a trusted health expert and influencer, set off alarm bells, urging consumers to stop using protein powders based on a new report citing concerns about lead, cadmium, and other contaminants in certain products.

Like any well-crafted fear-based marketing tactic, my initial reaction was panic. At Haskill Creek, we sell protein powder and have done our research—but what if we missed something? Instead of spiraling, I took a step back.

I’m tired of fear-mongering, so I asked myself: What report is he referencing, and what does it actually say?

A little digging led me to the  Clean Label Project (CLP)—a nonprofit focused on uncovering hidden risks in consumer products. Their The 2024-25 Protein Powder Category Report had everyone talking.

What’s in This Post?

• The CLP study—who conducted it, what they found, and what the report actually says (and doesn’t say).

• Industry trends—why contaminants may show up and how to choose a high-quality protein powder.

If you rely on protein powder, this report might not be as alarming as it seems!

👉 Curious why heavy metals like lead and cadmium are a concern? A quick breakdown is at the end of this post.

What is the Clean Label Project?

The Clean Label Project (CLP) is a nonprofit watchdog organization that tests consumer products for heavy metals, plasticizers, and pesticide residues, filling gaps where federal regulations may fall short. 

Brands can voluntarily submit products for CLP certifications by paying for independent chemical screening. Those that pass receive a CLP Certification or Award, helping them stand out in the market.

Beyond certifications, CLP conducts independent research across various categories, including CBD, baby food, and protein powders. Their 2024-25 study follows up on their 2018 research, revealing new concerns in the industry.

👉 Regardless of any flaws in this study, groups like CLP are essential for consumer awareness in an industry that isn’t always transparent.

Summary Of The 2024-25 Report

Data Set: According to their report, this is the most extensive study they have conducted to date. 

• 160 protein powders from 70 brands, covering 83% of the U.S. market

• 35,000+ tests on 258 contaminants (lead, cadmium, arsenic, mercury, BPAs & BPS)

• Results compared against California Prop 65 and other federal/state safety thresholds

Key Findings Summary

• 47% of products exceeded California Prop 65 toxic metal limits.

• Organic protein powders contained 3x more lead and 2x more cadmium than non-organic.

• Plant-based proteins had 3x more lead than whey-based alternatives.

• Chocolate-flavored powders had 4x more lead than vanilla varieties.

Yikes!  There is clearly a gap between consumer expectations of “health” products and the hidden risks that may be present in many of them.

Each of these points raises big questions about our food system—ones that go far beyond this post!   But, what I can do is offer a realistic, optimistic take that empowers you to make informed choices about protein powders.

What This Study Tells Us—and What It Doesn’t

The Good: Whenever a reputable testing agency conducts a study of this scale, there are clear benefits, including:

• Raising Consumer Awareness – A reminder to look beyond brand marketing.

• Encouraging Scientific Dialogue – Sparks further research and industry accountability.

• Putting Companies on Notice – Transparency is no longer optional.

The Limitations:  The report highlights concerns but is lacking in a few key areas:

• Lacks Specifics – Felicia Wu, Ph.D. (Michigan State University), notes that while heavy metals exceed Prop 65 limits, the report doesn’t specify exact numbers or daily intake, making the actual health risk unclear.🔗

• Lack of Transparency – Andrea Wong, Ph.D. (Council for Responsible Nutrition), points out that the testing methods, contamination thresholds, and interpretation aren’t fully disclosed.🔗

• Prop 65 Standards Can Be Misleading – Dr. MacKay (CHPA) explains that Prop 65 levels are labeling triggers, not safety limits. Modern testing detects trace metals far below FDA and EPA safety thresholds, meaning even minuscule amounts can trigger warnings.🔗

The study raises valid concerns, but without clear risk assessments or transparent testing methods, it’s hard to gauge actual health risks. Instead of fearing all protein powders, let’s look at the bigger picture.

A Positive Spin, The Consumer Market and How to Protect Yourself

Yes, the study found that 47% of protein powders tested exceeded California’s Prop 65 toxic metal limits. But that also means 53% did not—which is a big deal! That’s about 85 products that met the strictest standards in the country. And this study didn’t even test all brands—there are at least 32 more protein powders that could be clean.

So, if you’re looking for a safe protein powder, you’ve got plenty of choices!

Trends, Demand, and the Downside of a Booming Market

Whenever a health trend takes off, companies rush in to claim their piece of the market. The U.S. protein powder industry is now valued at around $9.6B! This has been fueled by the rise of the fitness culture and the general push for high-protein diets. With that comes innovation—but also shortcuts.

When a category becomes wildly profitable, not every brand entering the space has the same commitment to quality. Some companies will invest in rigorous testing and sourcing, while others will cut corners, using lower-quality ingredients, questionable manufacturing processes, or misleading marketing claims.

This is why studies like CLP’s exist—to call attention to potential issues. But instead of assuming all protein powders are dangerous, a better approach is learning how to separate the good from the bad.

How to Choose a Quality Protein Powder

Below are some key data points to look for. Most of these are either on the label or a brand’s website! Companies that put in the effort and money to get certifications and testing are going to make it obvious for you to see.  If not? You can email the company if you really are keen on a certain brand. If they don’t respond or give you a vague answer, move on. 

1. Reputable Certifications: 

• NSF Certified for Sport / Informed Sport 

• Clean Label Project

• EWG Verified

2. Third-Party Testing: 

• Brands that publish test results or provide them on request.

• Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC)  approved labs for credible testing (e.g. (QIMA, Eurofins, Intertek).

3. GMP Certification:

Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP) outlines strict standards for cleanliness, ingredient sourcing, and batch testing.

4. High-Quality Ingredients

• Grass-fed whey or organic plant proteins 

• Minimal additives (e.g. artificial sweeteners, flavors, colors, preservatives, fillers like maltodextrin, and high sugar levels)

• Heavy metal testing

• USDA Organic (though not necessarily free from heavy metals).

• Non GMO Project Verified- Ensures ingredients aren't genetically modified.

• Recognizable whole-food sources are usually better

5. Price: A Clue, Not a Guarantee

• Ultra-cheap powders may cut corners on quality, sourcing, or testing.

• Expensive brands aren’t always better—some just charge for branding.

• The best approach? Check certifications, testing, and ingredients instead of relying on price alone.

Final Takeaway: Be an Informed Consumer

Instead of fearing all protein powders, use this report as a reminder to read labels, look for testing, and choose brands that prioritize quality. You don’t have to spend a fortune—just know what to look for.

Our Top Picks (Sold at Haskill Creek* 😁)

*We provide links to products for informational purposes. We do not collect a commission for any sales you make directly with the company. In other words, your support by shopping at Haskill Creek is greatly appreciated!

• Thorne Whey Protein Isolate - Vanilla and Chocolate (NSF Certified for Sport®)

• Momentous Grass Fed Whey Protein Isolate Powder - Chocolate, Vanilla or Unflavoried (NSF Certified for Sport®)

• Momentous 100% Plant Protein Powder- Chocolate or Vanilla Spice (NSF Certified for Sport®)

• Truvani Plant Based Protein Powder (Coming Soon) - Vanilla, Vanilla Chai, Chocolate or Peanut Butter (Rigorous Third Party Testing)

👉 Click Here for a list of Protein Powders of other protein powders that screen for heavy metals other contaminants. 

Additional Context: Why Are Heavy Metals Like Lead and Cadmium a Concern?

Heavy metals like lead and cadmium can build up in the body over time and may cause serious health issues. Lead is known to affect brain development, the nervous system, and cardiovascular health, even at low levels. Cadmium is toxic to the kidneys and bones and has been linked to an increased risk of certain cancers. These metals are persistent in the environment and can enter the food supply through soil, water, and industrial pollution. Long-term exposure, even in small amounts, can contribute to chronic health problems.(🔗,🔗)