We tested 15 protein powders for heavy metals, additives, and taste. Here are our top picks for clean, effective supplements.
The protein powder market is booming, but not all products are created equal. Recent studies have found concerning levels of heavy metals, artificial additives, and misleading claims in many popular brands. We put 15 protein powders through rigorous third-party testing to find the cleanest, most effective options.
Our testing criteria included heavy metal screening, ingredient transparency, protein quality, taste, mixability, and overall value. Here's what we found.
Third-party lab testing for lead, cadmium, arsenic, and mercury
Evaluation of protein sources, additives, and artificial ingredients
Amino acid profile and bioavailability testing
Blind taste tests and mixability assessments
Type: Plant-based (Pea, Brown Rice, Chia) • Protein per serving: 22g
The verdict: Slightly grainy texture, but unbeatable ingredient quality and third-party certifications make it worth it.
Type: Grass-fed Whey Protein • Protein per serving: 25g
The verdict: If you can tolerate dairy, this is the cleanest whey option with exceptional taste and mixability.
Type: Plant-based (Pea, Brown Rice, Chia) • Protein per serving: 21g
The verdict: Best bang for your buck with solid certifications and clean ingredients. Widely available at major retailers.
Best for Skin & Joints • Grass-fed, pasture-raised bovine collagen with 20g protein per serving
Flavorless and dissolves completely in hot or cold liquids. Perfect for adding to coffee, smoothies, or baked goods without altering taste.
Best Budget Plant-Based • Non-GMO pea protein isolate with 24g protein per serving
Simple, single-ingredient formula at an unbeatable price. GMP certified and tested for purity. Unflavored version is versatile for various uses.
A 2018 Clean Label Project study found that 75% of protein powders tested contained detectable levels of heavy metals, with some exceeding safe limits for lead, cadmium, arsenic, and mercury. Plant-based proteins tend to have higher levels because plants absorb these metals from soil.
While the amounts in individual servings are generally low, regular consumption can lead to accumulation. This is especially concerning for:
Solution: Look for products with third-party certifications like NSF Certified for Sport, Informed-Choice, or those that publish their heavy metal test results. All our top picks passed stringent heavy metal screening.
Dairy-free? Choose plant-based options. Vegan? Avoid collagen and whey. Sensitive digestion? Look for isolates or hydrolyzed versions.
Look for USDA Organic, Non-GMO Project Verified, NSF Certified for Sport, or Informed-Choice seals. These ensure independent testing for purity and banned substances.
Fewer ingredients is usually better. The protein source should be the first ingredient, and you should recognize everything on the list.
Muscle building: 20-30g protein per serving. Weight management: Low sugar, added fiber. Skin/joints: Collagen peptides.
The cleanest protein powders prioritize simple, high-quality ingredients with transparent sourcing and third-party testing. While they may cost slightly more, the investment in your health is worth it—especially if you're consuming protein powder daily.
Our top pick, Garden of Life Raw Organic Protein, offers the best combination of clean ingredients, certifications, and complete nutrition. However, all five products on our list are excellent choices depending on your specific needs and budget.
Remember: protein powder is a supplement, not a replacement for whole food protein sources. Use it to fill gaps in your diet, but prioritize whole foods like eggs, fish, legumes, and nuts whenever possible.