Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton has launched an investigation into protein powder manufacturers following concerns about the presence of heavy metals such as lead and cadmium in these products. The investigation aims to determine whether these companies have violated the Texas Deceptive Trade Practices Act by potentially misrepresenting the safety of their products.

Health Concerns and Testing

According to Paxton, tests conducted by Consumer Reports and the Clean Label Project have revealed that plant-based protein powders, on average, contain lead levels nine times higher than those found in dairy-based powders like whey. Out of 160 products tested, 47% exceeded the limits for toxic heavy metals in a single serving. The FDA has stated that there is no known safe level of lead exposure, linking chronic exposure to various health issues, including immune suppression and kidney damage.

Consumer Safety and Legal Implications

Paxton emphasized the importance of clean and safe protein products for Texans, highlighting protein as a vital macronutrient for human health. The investigation will scrutinize whether manufacturers have falsely marketed their products as safe. While the specific manufacturers under investigation have not been named, the inquiry reflects broader concerns about product safety and consumer protection.

Related Investigations

This investigation follows another by the attorney general into the marketing practices of popular energy drink brands, including Alani Nu and Celsius, to determine if they target children and mislead consumers, potentially violating the same trade practices act.

Original reporting: El Paso News (HLL/CB) — read the source article.