Protein powders independently tested for heavy metals
- Josie Shillabeer
- Oct 24
- 3 min read
Have you checked that your protein powder is independently tested for heavy metals? Find out why it is important and view our top independently tested protein powders.
Reports have raised concerns about heavy metals, including lead, arsenic, cadmium, and mercury, being found in protein powders. For health-conscious consumers, this can be worrying: after all, the goal of supplementation is better health, not unnecessary exposure to toxins.
So, how can you choose a protein powder that’s both effective and safe?
Why Heavy Metal Testing Matters?
Plants naturally absorb minerals from the soil, but sometimes they can also absorb heavy metals if the soil, water, or air contains contaminants. This means that even high-quality plant ingredients can pose a risk if they aren’t carefully tested.
Not all protein powder manufacturers conduct thorough safety checks, which can lead to inconsistent product quality. Some independent reports have shown that certain powders exceed accepted safety limits.
Regular testing of protein powders and other supplements is crucial for protecting your health. Heavy metals like lead, arsenic, cadmium, and mercury can accumulate in the body over time, potentially affecting organs, cognitive function, and overall wellbeing. By choosing products that undergo independent testing, you ensure that what you’re putting into your body is safe, consistent, and free from harmful contaminants. Testing isn’t just a regulatory checkbox—it’s a safeguard that allows you to enjoy the benefits of your protein supplement without worrying about hidden risks.
How Independent Testing Keeps You Safe
The best way to protect yourself is to choose protein powders that are independently tested for heavy metals. Independent labs follow strict international standards and verify that products meet safety thresholds before they ever reach your cupboard.
Testing typically checks for:
Heavy metals: lead, arsenic, cadmium, mercury
Microbiological contaminants
Allergens: gluten, dairy, soy
Pesticide residues (including glyphosate)
When a product passes these tests, you can trust that it’s safe to use, and that what’s on the label matches what’s in your scoop.
Protein powders independently tested for heavy metals
If you are looking for a smooth and creamy protein powder, this is the one for you. It tastes delicious and pairs perfectly with Josie's Nut & Seed Mix.
Nuzest's approach to quality and testing:
They work with manufacturing partners and accredited independent laboratories that comply with ISO 17025 standards.
Selected products are tested on a positive release basis, meaning products are only released for sale once they meet strict specifications.
Nuzest uses golden European peas grown in clean soil with minimal exposure to environmental pollutants.
Their protein is extracted using a clean, water-based process, free from solvents, chemicals or unnecessary fillers.
Testing checks for:
Heavy metals (lead, arsenic, cadmium, mercury)
Microbiological contaminants
Allergens, including gluten, dairy and soy
Pesticide residues (including glyphosate)
Vivo Life protein powder offers a protein powder packed with nutrients, from fermented yellow pea protein and branch chain amino acids (BCAAs) to turmeric and reishi. It has a more dynamic flavour profile, which pairs perfectly with nuts and berries. Nutritionally, this is the best plant-based protein powder that I have found. It is ideal for those looking to support sports performance and recovery, mental health, blood sugar balance and more!
Vivo Life's approach to quality and testing:
Source ingredients from chemical-free farms and suppliers strictly vetted against its high standards. They do not accept ingredients without a compliant COA (certificate of analysis).
Each product is tested at the point of formulation for heavy metals, herbicides and pesticides.
Each product is sent for third-party analysis to be tested for contaminants. Products are sent routinely every year for testing, and every time there is a change of ingredient or supplier.
Vivo Life was once anonymously tested by a world-renowned laboratory known for testing supplements for contaminants (heavy metals, pesticides, herbicides etc) and accuracy (nutritional info). They rated was in the top 10 for purity and accuracy, and Vivo Life were the only plant-based company on the list.
Comments