5 On Your Side: Lead found in many protein powders; experts urge whole foods for protein

WRAL Daily Download

5 On Your Side: Lead found in many protein powders; experts urge whole foods for protein

Clean

Published on Mar 31, 2026, 3:59:59 AM
Total time: 00:11:43

Episode Description

As high-protein diets surge in popularity, a Consumer Reports investigation found high levels of lead in some protein powders and shakes, raising questions about supplement safety. The good news: Consumer Reports’ nutrition team says many tasty foods pack a protein punch without the risk of heavy metals.

A recent CR investigation that found lead in more than two-thirds of the protein powders tested. In two plant-based powders, lead levels were about 12 to 16 times higher than what experts consider safe for a single day.

WRAL's Keely Arthur and Jaylin Jones talk through what you should know before leaning to heavily on protein powders.

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The WRAL Daily Download is an in-depth conversation about a single news story. WRAL covers news across North Carolina every day, but this podcast focuses on one story at a time, bringing context to each conversation. The in-depth, localized podcast takes you into the latest stories from Raleigh, Durham, and the entire Triangle region on North Carolina. This is community news aimed at keeping you informed about the more subtle stories that are happening around you. Hosted by WRAL News journalists, episodes post weekdays by 4:30am.