We evaluated 10+ 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: Beef Protein Isolate • Protein per serving: 21g
The verdict: Perfect for those with dairy sensitivities who want a minimalist, clean protein source with exceptional quality.
Type: Grass-fed Whey Isolate • Protein per serving: 22g
The verdict: Premium whey isolate with exceptional quality, great taste, and complete transparency about ingredients and sourcing.
Type: Grass-fed Whey Protein • Protein per serving: 25g
The verdict: If you can tolerate dairy, and don't mind a subtler flabor this is a clean whey option with exceptional taste, mixability, and great value for the price.
Best Premium Single-Ingredient • 100% grass-fed whey protein concentrate with 20g protein per serving
Single ingredient whey from grass-fed cows with no additives whatsoever. Premium quality with a higher price point, but worth it for those who want the absolute cleanest whey option.
Buy on AmazonBest for Families • Clean plant-based blend with monk fruit sweetener and 20g protein per serving
Made with simple, recognizable ingredients that parents trust. Smooth texture, kid-friendly flavors, and free from all major allergens.
Buy on AmazonA 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, Equip Foods Prime Protein, offers the best combination of clean ingredients, certifications, complete nutrition, and taste. However, all five products on our list are excellent choices depending on your specific needs.
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 whenever possible.