What You Should Know About Lead in Protein Powders: As Featured on WWLTV
Oct 17, 2025
Consumer Reports Raises New Concerns
This week, Consumer Reports released an investigation testing 23 of the most popular protein powders and shakes sold online, including brands available on Amazon. The results were concerning. Two-thirds of the 23 products contained detectable levels of lead, with several exceeding California’s stricter safety guideline of 0.5 micrograms per day.
WWLTV (CBS New Orleans) covered the story during its October 16 broadcast and featured MaxWell Nutrition’s founder, Spencer Shilstone, to help viewers understand what these findings mean and how consumers can make smarter choices.
Watch the full WWLTV segment →
The Real Source of the Problem
“Apples are having the same issue, and it comes down to the soil, the water for irrigation, and air pollution. We really have to address those concerns to address everything else.”
— Spencer Shilstone, WWLTV Fitness & Nutrition Expert
The presence of lead in protein powders is not simply a manufacturing issue. It starts with the environment itself. Heavy metals like lead and cadmium enter the food system through soil, water, and air pollution, which means they can appear in crops, fruits, and vegetables.
Consumer Reports found that plant-based protein powders were more likely to have elevated levels of lead compared to dairy or beef-based products. This shows that the problem is not limited to supplements, but is part of a larger agricultural challenge.
Our Approach at MaxWell Nutrition
At MaxWell Nutrition, we believe in transparency and accountability. While we cannot control the global soil and water quality, we can control the quality of the products we make.
Here’s how we ensure every MaxWell product meets high safety standards:
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Third-Party Lab Testing: Every batch is tested for heavy metals, including lead, as well as bacteria and other potential contaminants.
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Safety Verification: Our products remain below the FDA’s interim reference level for lead exposure, which is 8.8 micrograms per day for adults.
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High-Quality Ingredients: We use a variety of premium ingredients, including whey, beef, collagen, and plant proteins. Each is carefully sourced for purity and performance.
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Transparency: We work only with manufacturers who meet strict documentation and quality testing requirements.
Supplements Are Supplemental
At MaxWell Nutrition, we always remind our customers that supplements are exactly that — supplemental. They are meant to support a balanced diet, not replace it.
This story is not a reason to avoid protein powders altogether. It is a reminder to make informed choices and buy from brands that test and verify their products. Choosing third-party tested nutrition is the best way to limit exposure to contaminants while still supporting your fitness and nutrition goals.
Shop Smart and Stay Informed
The Consumer Reports investigation is a valuable reminder of why testing and transparency matter. Until the environmental sources of contamination in soil, air, and water are addressed, consumers should focus on buying from trusted companies that prioritize safety and quality.
At MaxWell Nutrition, our promise is simple. We are committed to ensuring that what goes into your shaker is clean, tested, and safe.
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