Protein Powder Recall: What You Need to Know About Food Poisoning Fears

Protein Powder Recall: What You Need to Know About Food Poisoning Fears

Protein powder is a popular dietary supplement, with the U.S. market exceeding $9.69 billion in 2023. People use it for various reasons, including muscle gain, weight loss, and overall health improvement. However, recent recalls and reports have raised concerns about the safety of these products, with some containing harmful contaminants. A recent Consumer Reports investigation found that over two-thirds of 23 tested protein powders and shakes contained unsafe levels of lead. This article delves into what you need to know about protein powder recalls and the potential food poisoning fears associated with them.

Understanding the Risks

Protein powders, like any food product, are susceptible to contamination. This can occur during manufacturing, packaging, or even from the ingredients themselves. Contaminants can range from bacteria like Salmonella to heavy metals like lead and cadmium.

Common Contaminants Found in Protein Powder

  • Heavy Metals: Lead, cadmium, arsenic, and mercury are naturally occurring elements found in the earth’s crust. They can end up in protein powders through soil and water contamination, especially in plant-based products. A Clean Label Project study found that 47% of tested protein powders exceeded at least one federal or state regulatory safety limit. Organic protein powders sometimes contain higher levels of heavy metals. For example, chocolate-flavored powders may contain more lead and cadmium than vanilla flavors.
  • Bacteria: Salmonella and Staphylococcus are bacteria that can cause food poisoning. Recalls have been issued due to potential Salmonella contamination in whey protein and pea protein powders. Poor manufacturing conditions can also lead to Staphylococcus contamination.
  • Undeclared Allergens: Some protein powders have been recalled due to undeclared allergens like peanuts. This can pose a serious risk to individuals with allergies, potentially causing life-threatening reactions. In January 2025, Orgain issued a Class I recall for its 30g Plant Protein Complete Protein Powder due to undeclared peanut allergens, affecting 6,276 tubs distributed nationwide.
  • Bisphenols: Chemical compounds like BPA and BPS, often used in plastics and resins, can contaminate protein powders through packaging. These are endocrine disruptors with significant health risks.

Recent Protein Powder Recalls

Several protein powder recalls have been issued due to contamination concerns:

  • 2025: Orgain recalled its 30g Plant Protein Complete Protein Powder (chocolate flavor) due to undeclared peanut allergens.
  • 2024: Naturz Organics USA LLC recalled certain Naturz Organics Organic Pea Protein bags because of possible Salmonella contamination.
  • 2020: Project Healthy Living Inc. recalled Aloha Premium Protein powders due to potential Staphylococcal food poisoning.
  • 2011: Nutrition Express recalled specific products containing whey protein isolate due to potential Salmonella contamination.

Symptoms of Food Poisoning from Protein Powder

Food poisoning symptoms can vary depending on the contaminant but often include:

  • Nausea
  • Vomiting
  • Diarrhea
  • Stomach pain or cramps
  • Fever
  • Headache
  • Fatigue
  • Dehydration

Severe symptoms, such as bloody diarrhea, high fever (over 102°F), persistent vomiting, and signs of dehydration, require immediate medical attention.

What to Do If You Suspect Food Poisoning

  1. Seek Medical Attention: If you experience severe symptoms, see a doctor immediately. Keep all medical records and test results.
  2. Preserve Evidence: Save any remaining protein powder and its packaging in a sealed container. Keep your purchase receipt.
  3. Report the Incident: Notify the store or manufacturer where you bought the protein powder. Contact your local health department to report the potential foodborne illness.
  4. Document Everything: Write down your symptoms, when they started, and any medical treatments you received.
  5. Contact a Lawyer: If you believe your illness was caused by negligence or a contaminated product, consult a personal injury lawyer.

Legal Options for Food Poisoning Victims

If you’ve suffered food poisoning from contaminated protein powder, you may have legal options:

  • Product Liability Claims: Protein powder lawsuits often fall under product liability laws, arguing that you were sold a defective product that caused you harm.
  • Negligence: You can argue that the manufacturer or supplier was negligent in producing or distributing the contaminated protein powder.
  • Breach of Warranties: If the protein powder was falsely advertised or mislabeled, you may have a claim for breach of warranty.
  • Class Action Lawsuits: If many people are affected by the same contaminated product, a class action lawsuit may be an option.

To build a strong case, it’s crucial to:

  • Prove Causation: Connect the consumption of the contaminated protein powder to your illness. Medical records and lab tests can help establish this link.
  • Gather Evidence: Collect purchase receipts, medical bills, and any communication with the manufacturer or retailer.
  • Consult an Attorney: An experienced attorney can evaluate your case, advise you on your legal options, and represent you in negotiations or litigation.

Choosing Safer Protein Powders

While the risk of contamination is a concern, you can take steps to minimize your exposure:

  • Third-Party Testing: Look for protein powders that have been tested by independent organizations like NSF Certified for Sport or the Clean Label Project.
  • Check for Heavy Metals: Choose brands that provide certificates of analysis (COAs) showing the levels of heavy metals in their products.
  • Opt for Vanilla: Chocolate-flavored powders tend to have higher levels of lead and cadmium.
  • Consider Whey Protein: Plant-based protein powders often have higher levels of heavy metals than whey-based options.
  • Read Labels Carefully: Check for any allergen warnings and ensure the product is properly labeled.
  • Buy from Reputable Brands: Choose well-known brands with a history of quality and safety.
  • Whole Food Sources: Consider incorporating more whole-food protein sources into your diet, such as lean meats, fish, eggs, dairy, legumes, nuts, and seeds.

The Bottom Line

While protein powder can be a convenient way to supplement your diet, it’s essential to be aware of the potential risks. By staying informed about recalls, understanding the symptoms of food poisoning, and taking steps to choose safer products, you can protect your health and well-being. If you believe you’ve been harmed by contaminated protein powder, consult a personal injury lawyer to explore your legal options.