Recent Consumer Reports Findings on Owyn and Lead
In a recent 2025 investigation, Consumer Reports (CR) tested 23 popular protein products and found concerning levels of lead and other heavy metals in many of them. The report specifically highlighted Owyn's Pro Elite High Protein Shake, which was found to have lead levels that, while below some federal limits, were 88% of CR's daily 'level of concern' per serving. As a result, CR recommended a limit of one serving per day for this particular product. This investigation reaffirmed long-standing concerns about heavy metals in supplements and the need for greater transparency from manufacturers.
Prior Legal Challenges and Product Violations
The issue of lead in Owyn's products is not new. In 2020, the Environmental Research Center (ERC) filed a Notice of Violation under California's Proposition 65 against Owyn, alleging that multiple products contained lead and, in some cases, cadmium, without a required warning. This led to a class-action lawsuit filed in August 2025, specifically targeting the company's chocolate Plant Protein Powder due to alleged lead content and potentially misleading marketing claims. These legal actions underscore the persistent nature of heavy metal issues within the supplement industry.
The Problem of Heavy Metals in Plant-Based Protein
It is well-established that plant-based protein powders face a higher risk of heavy metal contamination compared to dairy-based products. This is because plants naturally absorb trace metals like lead from the soil and groundwater as they grow. The concentration of these heavy metals can vary widely depending on the geographical location where the plant crops were grown, the soil quality, and the specific manufacturing processes used. The Consumer Reports investigation confirmed this, noting that, on average, the lead levels in plant-based products they tested were significantly higher than in dairy-based options.
How Owyn Addresses Testing and Safety
Owyn emphasizes its commitment to safety and states that its products adhere to government standards. The company does conduct third-party testing, but the primary focus publicly shared is on the top nine allergens, which are tested per batch using ELISA assays. Regarding heavy metals, Owyn claims compliance with California's Proposition 65 and tests every batch. However, some reviewers note that the brand is not fully transparent about its heavy metal testing, failing to disclose the accredited lab or provide Certificates of Analysis. This lack of transparency contrasts with the detailed, publicly available information on allergen testing and leaves consumers to rely on third-party investigative reports for verification.
A Comparison of Protein Supplement Safety
When evaluating protein supplements, third-party certification is a crucial factor. Certifications from organizations like NSF or Informed Sport verify that products have been tested for contaminants and banned substances. A comparison of Owyn's products against others can highlight different approaches to safety and transparency.
| Feature | Owyn Pro Elite High Protein Shake | Optimum Nutrition Gold Standard 100% Whey | Muscle Tech 100% Mass Gainer |
|---|---|---|---|
| Lead Level (relative to CR's concern) | 88% of daily limit per serving | 56% of daily limit per serving | Not detected |
| CR's Daily Serving Recommendation | One serving per day limit | 1.75 servings per day limit | No limit (lead not detected) |
| Protein Type | Plant-based | Whey | Whey |
| Third-Party Testing (CR context) | Did not respond to CR's inquiry on recent tests | Declined to comment on CR findings | Tests for heavy metals, but not fully transparent |
| Overall Transparency | Lower transparency on heavy metal testing | High transparency reported by other reviews | High transparency reported by other reviews |
What This Means for Consumers
The presence of lead in Owyn and other protein shakes does not typically pose an immediate health risk, as the levels are far below those that cause immediate harm. However, lead can accumulate in the body over time, and prolonged, low-level exposure can lead to long-term health issues. Therefore, experts advise caution, especially for regular users, and recommend balancing supplement intake with a diet rich in whole food protein sources.
- Read Production Dates: Older products might predate updated testing protocols, so checking the manufacturing date is a prudent step before buying.
- Diversify Your Sources: Do not rely exclusively on protein shakes for your protein intake. A varied diet of whole foods is the safest approach.
- Look for Transparency: Seek out brands that are transparent about their third-party testing, including heavy metals, and provide public access to their test results.
- Understand Certification: Some certifications, like NSF or Informed Sport, have stringent testing for heavy metals and other contaminants, providing a higher level of assurance than brands that conduct internal or non-specific third-party testing.
Conclusion
While Owyn has faced legal allegations and was included in recent Consumer Reports findings regarding lead content, the company states its products are safe and tested for allergens. The issue of heavy metals is particularly relevant to plant-based proteins due to soil absorption. The lack of transparency from Owyn regarding specific heavy metal testing and test results leaves consumers with some uncertainty. As with all supplements, informed caution and due diligence are recommended. Consumers should consider diversifying their protein sources, checking production dates, and prioritizing brands with comprehensive and transparent third-party testing, such as those certified by NSF or Informed Sport. For the latest independent product reviews and test results, consumers can consult resources like Consumer Reports(https://www.consumerreports.org/lead/protein-powders-and-shakes-contain-high-levels-of-lead-a4206364640/).
Final Summary: Owyn protein shakes have been shown to contain detectable levels of lead in recent Consumer Reports testing and have faced previous Prop 65 violation notices. The brand emphasizes allergen testing but is less transparent about heavy metal test results, leaving consumers to navigate potential risks, particularly with older products or frequent consumption.
