Lead in Plant-Based Protein Powders: What Vegans Should Know

By: Gloria Stovall

I know it has been a while since I have written a post, but this felt like an important topic to write about. I use vegan protein powder daily, so when I started seeing articles and reports about lead in plant-based protein powders, I wanted to look more into it, as I never really took it into consideration.

Unfortunately, plant-based protein powders do tend to contain more lead than their animal-based counterparts. That is not because they are poorly made or unsafe by default. It is because plants absorb what’s in the soil they are grown in, including naturally occurring heavy metals like lead. Whey and other animal-based proteins do not have the same direct exposure to soil, so the levels of lead are lower.

Lead naturally exists in small amounts in many plant foods we eat every day, including leafy greens, beans, grains, cocoa, and spices. When those plants are turned into protein powder, everything becomes more concentrated. That concentration is why protein powders, especially plant-based ones, show higher numbers on lab tests compared to whole foods.

Since I use vegan protein powder every day, I’ve had to think more carefully about how lead exposure can add up over time. For me, the easy solution is not giving it up completely. I now pay closer attention to brands that test for heavy metals, share third-party lab results, and are transparent about their sourcing. I also avoid doubling or tripling up on scoops unless I truly need it, which is not often.

I also make sure protein powder is not my only protein source. Lentils, tofu, tempeh, beans, nuts, seeds, and whole grains still make up most of my meals. Vegan protein powder is a supplement for convenience, not a replacement for food.

Being vegan does not mean pretending the lifestyle is perfect. It means staying informed and making choices that align with both your values and health. I still use vegan protein powder daily, but I do so with more awareness than I had before.

Thank you for still being here, especially since it has been over a year since I last wrote! Life has been busy, and even though I have been quiet, by the grace of God, I am doing really well. I recently started graduate school, which has taken up a lot of my time, but the vegan lifestyle and writing about it are still very important to me. I look forward to sharing my thoughts and experiences with you! Have a blessed week!