Clean Label Project has seen elevated levels of heavy metals including Arsenic, Cadmium, Lead, and Mercury as well as BPA leaching from packaging into the finished product. var slotId = 'div-gpt-ad-althealthworks_com-medrectangle-3-0'; Navitas Peruvian nibs: Average 0.44mcg/g (440 ppb) of cadmium and 0.01mcg/g ( 10 ppb) of lead. The short answer is that heavy metals can build up in the body over time and cause health problems. every day. According to reviewers, it mixes very easily and doesnt have a chalky aftertaste like many other protein powders on the market, so it can be a great addition to your post-workout protein shake. After finding out about these test results, The Garden of Life sent WTMJ the following statement about the study: We will continue to dig into the methodology of this recent study. cup of hemp seeds. Lead - 18.3 ppb. The above picks give you options for either the best vegan and whey protein powder without heavy metals. Mesquite helps to keep blood sugar levels under control. The products are labeled as using grass-fed milk, non-GMO, free of hormones, pesticides, or chemicals. ( 2 ) 2. The Unflavored version is free of added sugar and contains just one ingredient: whey protein concentrate. Our experts continually monitor the health and wellness space, and we update our articles when new information becomes available. The main ingredient in Ritual protein powder is pea protein, an organic, non-GMO, vegan-friendly source of protein. By Carly Schuna. "It is a vegan-friendly powder that is made from the humble yellow pea. If you're looking for a whey protein powder for weight loss, Natreve is a great option because it has a satiating combo of protein and fiber. The exact oppositive of what we thought would happen, happened. This powder consists of a blend of bio-fermented yellow pea protein, cold-pressed hemp protein, spirulina, and chlorella. Eat This, Not That, has the Warrior Blend listed as one of the best protein powders for smoothies. It is an endocrine disruptor; a chemical that pretends to be a hormone, thus creating hormonal imbalances and other issues in the body. Organic powders had up to 1.5X more arsenic, up to 4.8X more cadmium and up to 1.5X more lead. window.ezoSTPixelAdd(slotId, 'adsensetype', 1); This is possibly due to the processing. Updated. Protein supplements and fortified foods are often the subject of concern for heavy metals, but low levels of various heavy metals are common in many of the natural foods we eat daily. Meanwhile, whey hydrolysate or hydrolyzed whey has been partially broken down to ease digestion and speed absorption (11). day, 2022 Galvanized Media. -Vega Sport Plant-Based Chocolate Performance Protein However, it does contain coconut, which some people may need to avoid. So steer clear if you notice these issues. Exercising regularly may also be beneficial as some metals are released via sweat. This protein powder from Raw Organic Whey is a good option for individuals undergoing cancer treatment, as its made with organic whey protein concentrate and is free of: Its also third-party tested to verify that its free of harmful contaminants, such as: Reviewers state that its smooth and creamy with a mild flavor, which might be preferable for people experiencing changes in taste due to cancer treatment. If you feel like getting creative, experiment with using protein powder as an addition or substitution in your usual recipes. 3.9/5 - (54 votes) A Consumer Reports investigation into the safety of protein supplements found that more than half exceed the California Prop 65 Safe Drinking Water and Toxic Enforcement Act action levels. So while the heavy metals in one serving is fine, two or three servings may be too much. ins.dataset.adChannel = cid; Because casein protein digests slower than whey protein, it can help provide a steady stream of amino acids for muscle recovery while you sleep.". Puori PW1 Dark Chocolate Pure Whey Protein. "This is a delicious plant based-protein powder with just 4 ingredients and no artificial sweeteners, gums, or sugar alcohols," says Lisa Young, Ph.D., RDN, author ofFinally Full, Finally Slim and member of our Medical Expert Board. 1. Pair With: Add Naked PB and Naked Rice for flavor, extra . When we got the test results back, we were shocked. Nutrition stats per 1/4-cup (20-g) serving: This bovine collagen peptide protein powder is free of gluten and dairy and easy to digest and absorb. Price: $26.99 $26.99 ($0.96 $0.96 / Ounce) Check out these links to read up on other organizations look into both the good and bad when it comes to this category. if(typeof ez_ad_units != 'undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[300,250],'althealthworks_com-banner-1','ezslot_8',103,'0','0'])};__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-althealthworks_com-banner-1-0');One product received 3 stars: Sunwarrior Warrior Blend Vanilla Plant-Based Organic Protein. Ora Organic says that each serving gives you two servings of greens due to their greens and superfood blend. something, we will not earn a commission. Quinoa can reduce blood triglycerides and the prevalence of metabolic syndrome (associated with the risk of heart disease and type 2 diabetes) in overweight and obese people, according to research 5. We conform to all safety and quality measures, including rigorous California Prop 65 standards. You'll also want to decide between a plant-based powder, with the most common type being made from pea protein, or an animal product protein powder, with the most common being made from whey. Meaning: If you use these links to buy Nutrition stats per 2-scoop (32.5-g) serving (Vanilla): Ground-Based Nutrition Superfood Protein Powder is organic, unsweetened, and GMO-free. Its also produced in a facility thats certified by NSF International. This protein powder consists of an ultrafiltered whey protein concentrate and microfiltered whey protein isolate blend. © 2023 Copyright Clean Label Project All Rights Reserved, Clean Label Project As weve seen, money has made some people manipulate information on reports. 1/2 cup of quinoa The plant-based powder features raw greens, including kale, broccoli, and spinach, as well as superfoods like spirulina and maca. Choosing a high quality product that has undergone third-party testing can help minimize the risk of contamination with these harmful compounds. Some toxins were present in significant quantities. Some research shows that whey protein can be a good option for people with malnutrition. On the other hand, some also state that certain varieties may be too sweet and report that the powder becomes clumpy when mixed into hot liquids. Other Ways To Get Your Protein In Eating moderate amounts of protein throughout the day may also help prevent muscle loss in older adults (22). Pea protein is one of the easiest forms of protein to digest. Nutrition stats per 4-tbsp (30-g) serving: Ora Organic Vegan Protein Powder features a variety of plant-based ingredients, including peas, rice, sprouted quinoa, amaranth, and hemp seed. var ffid = 2; You can also sign up for more articles like these in your inbox by clicking on this link. The Vega powder offers a variety of flavors, including caramel toffee, strawberry banana, dark chocolate, and vanilla. The taste can be rather intense for people not used to consuming superfoods, but the nutrition is just top-notch. You can look at the infographic of our study here and read the full white paper of our study here. OWYN offers a plant-based powder which provides 20 grams of protein from pea, pumpkin, and chia seeds. The best time to take protein powder depends on your health goals. Its also paleo-friendly and free of fillers, additives, and sweeteners. Note that while this product is an excellent option if youre limiting your intake of carbs or calories, its a bit more expensive than other varieties of protein powder and may not be ideal if youre on a tight budget. } Vega Sport Plant-Based Protein Powder is the best tasting, most effective plant-based powder you can find, with a wide array of flavors and whopping 30 grams of protein. Some of the most popular protein bars contain heavy metals, like lead, and fail to meet their label claims, according to a lab test by Labdoor, a 5-year-old San Francisco start up backed by . We believe these brands are the best based on our rigorous product testing. At Orgain, we are committed to making delicious nutrition products with the cleanest ingredients and highest standards available. Navitas Organics specializes in high-quality, organically-sourced superfoods, and their cacao powder is the best on the market. It also contains omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids and all nine essential amino acids. Still, people describe it as having a great taste that makes it easy to drink and enjoy. So to be safe, choose pea or hemp protein over rice if whey, casein or egg is not an option. Collagen powders, whey protein powders, and plant-based protein powders to name a few are all subject to this scrutiny of heavy metals. } Higher calorie formulations that contain other ingredients like carbs or fat such as meal replacements may also be beneficial for those who have difficulty meeting their nutritional needs through food sources alone. Each serving will give you 25g of protein. Many people enjoy the taste whether mixing it with water, plant milk, or fruit. . Cadmium: 59.8 ppb. If we consume a lot of protein powder, it may pose a risk to our health, which is why I always suggest getting a NSF certified protein - typically sport-tested proteins go through additional testing to improve safety Over 45 Chocolate Brands Contain Toxic Amounts of Lead and Cadmium (Major Organic Store Chain Brands Are Included), These Foods Come with A Free Side of Arsenic, FDA Approved, Warning! While the Chocolate flavor can be used in smoothies and desserts, Vital Protein Collagen Peptides Unflavored powder is even more versatile, as you can also add it to savory foods like soups. Whether on social media or on the news, the issue of industrial and environmental contaminants in the news is a daily phenomenon. Using language such as detectable levels is also very vague. According to ConsumerLab.com's news release of June 9, 2010, greens powders, made from wheat grass, alfalfa, kelp, spirulina, leafy vegetables and other chlorophyll-containing ingredients, were recently tested by ConsumerLab.com for potential contamination with heavy metals and pesticides. Mercury: 4.6 ppb. This may be especially beneficial for people with increased protein needs, those with difficulty meeting their needs through food sources alone, and those with certain dietary restrictions, such as vegans or vegetarians. Mercury: Mercury is a heavy metal, which can damage health at even small amounts, according to the World Health Organization (WHO). According to Callan, "That probably has more to do with these products being plant-based than being organic." And if you're concerned about the heavy metal content of some protein powders, this supplement has no trace of that. This is why they went for hemp protein. Only one product by VEGA received a 3-star rating, and that is: VEGA One Plant-Based Coconut Almond All-In-One Shake. Although KOS organic plant-based protein powder costs $37 for 30 servings, it isn't the most expensive option given the high calibre and amount of its constituents. EatThis.com is part of the AllRecipes Food Group. Each subscription also includes personalized nutrition advice from a registered dietitian. The inorganic one can cause harm and lead to skin, lung, and bladder cancers, and other health conditions. This ensures your muscles get the nutrition they need to recover and perform. Organic Nutiva Hemp Protein consists of cold-pressed hemp. "Things like heavy metals, lead, arsenic, cadmium and mercury, antibiotic residues . You can toast the grains and legumes before grinding them up if you struggle to digest them raw. They have enlisted the help of Clean Label Project to go into the marketplace and randomly purchase and test their products to ensure that they continue to live up to these high standards. Best for a Meal Replacement: Natreve Grass-Fed Whey. The combination of all these plant protein sources gives you all the necessary amino acids. There is only 1g of sugar. They are also Unflavored and can be combined with the brands Flavor Boosts, which are available in nine unique varieties. Plus, its organic, certified vegan, and made without any artificial ingredients. So you want a protein powder without heavy metals? Additionally, this product is certified by Informed Sport, is certified gluten-free, and is free of: Nutrition stats per 4-scoop (321-g) serving (Unflavored): Cancer can cause several negative symptoms, all of which can negatively affect treatment outcomes (16), including: Though direct consultation with a guiding physician during cancer treatment is first recommended, whey protein is often recommended for people with cancer. Casein protein is also a milk protein, but it digests more slowly. Heavy metals and chemicals in my protein powder? A study published in the Journal of the American College of Nutrition found that whey protein supplementation was linked to reduced body weight and fat mass, as well as reduced risk of some cardiovascular disease risk factors, in obese or overweight patients. If you are vegan or prefer a plant-based protein powder, there is no reason to switch to animal products. A brand mostly known for its mushroom coffees, Four Sigmatic also offers a line of healthy, simple-ingredient protein powders. Just keep in mind that its only available in one flavor, so it may not be as versatile as other protein powders. Researchers have identified that significant exposure to at least 23 different environmental metals (called "heavy metals") can contribute to acute or chronic toxicity. Protein powders can help women lost fat, tone up and improve strength. They even have a handy guide on how to choose a clean protein powder. Though the original supplement is made with whey and casein, the company also offers a vegan version, which is made from pea protein and brown rice protein. Ora Organic tests every batch for heavy metals and microbiological activity. The almond is a popular tree nut that is loaded with important nutrients. Here are 14 reasons for constant hunger. Lead poisoning from high amounts of lead can be fatal. Its pretty hard to escape heavy metals. This article is for informational purposes only and is not intended to treat, prevent or diagnose any diseases. Naked whey is made up of grass-fed whey protein and is hormone-free. They may also contain heavy metals, which can negatively affect the health of your kidneys, brain, thyroid gland, and reproductive system if consumed in large amounts (25). or by using protein powder made from bone broth. 1,5 cups of yellow split peas Johns Killer Protein has a variety of grass-fed or grass and oat-fed whey protein options. Nutrition stats vary as products are customized. One scoop provides 18 grams of protein from vegan sources including pea, hemp, chia, pumpkin, and coconut protein, and it is sweetened with organic maple syrup and monk fruit," says Sydney Greene MS, RDN. Subscribe to Videos. Also, consider your health goals. While risk is low, protein powders may be contaminated with heavy metals, although that is typically less of a concern with milk-based proteins, such as whey, especially whey isolates. Finally, some research suggests that taking protein powder before you go to sleep may help your muscles recover overnight (23). (adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}); They are willing to provide the test results upon request. Unfortunately, getting the recommended 1035% of your calories from protein every day can be a challenge, especially on busy days. Body Fortress Super Advanced Whey Protein comes in banana crme, chocolate, chocolate peanut butter, cinnamon swirl, cookies n cream, strawberry, and vanilla flavor. You can even add it to dips, salads, and soups. Just to note the options below may have a low amount of metals. "[It] is also paleo-approved, keto-friendly, gluten-free, and made with only 1 gram of sugar per serving," says Manaker. Its sweetened with sucralose. Ora Organic Vegan Protein comes in three flavors, vanilla, chai vanilla, and chocolate. A few years ago, Mike Adams, The Health Ranger, tested their protein powders with three different labs, and the results were: contaminated with tungsten, lead and cadmium. Here are the ranges found: Dark chocolate bars (40 gram serving): 136.4 mg to 560.8 mg Dark chocolate chips (15 gram serving): 79.2 mg to 143.6 mg Cocoa powders (1 tablespoon 5 grams): 13.1 mg to 124.8 mg Cacao nibs (30 gram serving): 364.5 mg to 677.1 mg Cocoa supplements (1 serving): 0.23 mg to 753.5 mg You can look at the infographic of our study here and read the full white paper of our study here. You can find the latest heavy metal levels on their site. Additionally, this product is certified by Informed Sport, a third-party organization that tests supplements to ensure that theyre free of banned substances. If vanilla isn't your thing, you can try chocolate, cafe mocha, peanut butter, creamy cacao, or the unflavored option for a more discreet addition of protein to your meal. In addition to being made with non-GMO ingredients, the powders collagen is sourced from grass-fed, pasture-raised cows. Vega Sport Premium Protein 6. Well discuss this later. Specific Sunwarrior products that tested extremely poorly are: -Sunwarrior Classic Plus Chocolate Sprouted & Fermented Plant-Based Protein RELATED: 5 Protein Powders With the Best Amazon Reviews. This is not generally an area of concern, but its good to minimize heavy metal intake. One of the biggest reasons for that is that Naked Nutrition freely displays their heavy metal test results. However, it rated the best for organic protein powder. One-time purchase $59.00. -Vega Sport Plant-Based Vanilla Performance Protein Finally, Puori is the only other company to receive a perfect 5-star rating. The Now Sports Nutrition line offers a variety of other protein powder options, like pumpkin seed protein, brown rice protein, and protein soy isolate. Many of the popular protein powders, including plant-based ones found in health food stores everywhere, may be full of heavy metals. Puori PW1 Blackcurrant Pure Whey Protein -Garden Of Life Organic Shake & Meal Replacement Chocolate Cacao Raw Organic Meal. Combine it with 12 ounces of liquid, such as almond milk or water, or use it to create a smoothie, according to the directions. Capra was the protein powder of choice for the 2014 Superbowl winners, the Seattle Seahawks. This is an awesome, sugar-free, vegan protein powder to add to smoothies or oatmeal." Steer clear if you have a soy allergy. Clean Label Project is committed to changing the definition of food and consumer safety through data, science, and transparency. Given that scientists have started linking these substances to health issues, we can all see the need for this kind of transparency. "It also contains electrolytes, antioxidants that support immune health like vitamin C, zinc, and L-glutamine, and is NSF-certified for sport. Each serving gives you 20g of protein. It failed the test for cadmium and lead. All three products from BioChem received a perfect 5-star rating: BioChem Natural 100% Whey Protein This is clearly using scare tactics.if(typeof ez_ad_units != 'undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[300,250],'nutritionlunatic_com-leader-1','ezslot_3',110,'0','0'])};__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-nutritionlunatic_com-leader-1-0');if(typeof ez_ad_units != 'undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[300,250],'nutritionlunatic_com-leader-1','ezslot_4',110,'0','1'])};__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-nutritionlunatic_com-leader-1-0_1'); .leader-1-multi-110{border:none !important;display:block !important;float:none !important;line-height:0px;margin-bottom:7px !important;margin-left:auto !important;margin-right:auto !important;margin-top:7px !important;max-width:100% !important;min-height:250px;padding:0;text-align:center !important;}. https://www.mayoclinichealthsystem.org/hometown-health/speaking-of-health/are-you-getting-too-much-protein#:~:text=How%20much%20protein%20do%20you,per%20kilogram%20of%20body%20weight. Yes, whey protein, like most natural food sources is likely to experience heavy metal exposure to a degree. In fact, according to the National Library of Medicine, this nutrient is the building block of life because your body breaks it down into amino acids, and we need a certain amount of amino acids to make new cells, repair old ones, and maintain overall good health. It's made from various sprouts, pumpkin seeds, goji berries and other superfoods. Bottom 5 protein powders, averaged: Arsenic: 13.1 ppb. It often found in fish and seafood products, dental fillings, and pharmaceuticals. Generally, rice protein tends to have higher arsenic levels than other plants. These are limits are between 20-50 times higher than those set by the Prop 65 laws set in California. Likewise, Vivo lifes ingredients are tested at the source. ins.className = 'adsbygoogle ezasloaded'; If you have a medical condition, are pregnant or breastfeeding, or take any medications that could be affected by protein powders, talk with a healthcare professional before using one. To save time, make a larger portion of smoothie mixture and freeze it to make individual ice pops. It rated well for nutritional qualities; it tested free of pesticides and BPA, however, it rated poorly in arsenic/ mercury and cadmium/lead categories. If you want to lose weight, you can also try incorporating more high protein foods throughout the day, as studies show that increasing your intake of protein could help reduce appetite and cravings (19). -Vega One Plant-Based Chocolate All-In-One Shake. if(typeof ez_ad_units != 'undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[300,250],'althealthworks_com-medrectangle-1','ezslot_5',121,'0','0'])};__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-althealthworks_com-medrectangle-1-0');report this adSpecific Garden of Life products that tested extremely poorly are: PHOTO: The FDA. I also use this. They can cause a depletion of essential nutrients and weaken our immune systems too.if(typeof ez_ad_units != 'undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[300,250],'nutritionlunatic_com-box-4','ezslot_1',107,'0','0'])};__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-nutritionlunatic_com-box-4-0');if(typeof ez_ad_units != 'undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[300,250],'nutritionlunatic_com-box-4','ezslot_2',107,'0','1'])};__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-nutritionlunatic_com-box-4-0_1'); .box-4-multi-107{border:none !important;display:block !important;float:none !important;line-height:0px;margin-bottom:7px !important;margin-left:auto !important;margin-right:auto !important;margin-top:7px !important;max-width:100% !important;min-height:250px;padding:0;text-align:center !important;}. The bottom line is that Clean Label is at least creating awareness and fighting for the right of consumers. The rating system appears to be more subjective as opposed to scientific. The maximum limits for them in dietary supplements proposed by the U.S. Pharmacopeia are: arsenic (inorganic), 15 micrograms (g) per day; cadmium, 5 g; lead, 10 g; mercury, 15 g. However, the Vega class action lawsuit says the protein powder and shakes actually contain heavy metals at such high levels of lead and cadmium both of which are considered toxic under California law. Cadmium can end up in the soil and water and then be absorbed by plants. The healthiest protein powder source for you depends on your: Still, a few of the most common protein powders healthy options are sourced from: In addition to considering the source of your protein powder, its also important to look for a product that is free of or contains minimal amounts of, artificial additives like fillers, sweeteners, flavors, and dyes. Contact me if you need custom WordPress plugins or website design. People are most often exposed to BPA by consuming foods stored in containers made with this toxin. Protein powders are supplemented foods, when made from quality ingredients , with good provenance and manufacturing standards are generally consistent with these . Its a good source of iron and calcium too. However, it may not be ideal for those with food allergies, as its processed in a facility that also handles common allergens such as peanuts, milk, soy, eggs, and tree nuts. Cadmium: Cadmium is another heavy metal, which is often used in batteries, color pigments, coating, and plastics. Capra Products Double Bonded Goat Milk Protein (30 servings, $2.14 per serving, 20 grams of protein) Mt. Ritual also prioritizes transparency by providing detailed information about the source and function of each ingredient it uses. In particular, lead and cadmium can lead to bone fractures. Long-term exposure to smaller amounts of lead can cause depression, irritability, feeling nauseous all the time, forgetfulness, constipation, and abdominal pain. They also use non-GMO ingredients.