Consumer Reports Investigation Uncovers Phthalates in Fairlife
In a concerning 2024 investigation, Consumer Reports (CR) tested various food products for plastic chemicals, known as phthalates, which are used to make plastics more flexible and durable. The results were startling, with 99% of the tested foods containing these plasticizers. Most notably, Fairlife's Core Power High Protein Chocolate Milk Shake registered one of the highest levels of phthalates discovered during the testing. This finding prompted CR to send a formal letter to Fairlife in February 2024, demanding the company address the issue and reduce the chemical levels in its products.
The Health Risks Associated with Phthalates
The presence of high phthalate levels in consumer goods is not a minor issue. Medical research has established links between these plasticizers and a long list of health problems. Consumer Reports highlighted that steady, cumulative exposure to even low levels of these chemicals over time can significantly increase health risks. For example, phthalates are known to interfere with the body's hormone regulation, potentially leading to or increasing the risk of:
- Birth defects
- Diabetes
- Obesity
- Heart disease
- Certain cancers
- Neurodevelopmental disorders
- Infertility
CR’s letter pointed out that despite these known risks, many current tolerable daily intake levels for phthalates are outdated and not protective enough of public health. The report emphasized that while these chemicals are widespread in the food supply, it is possible for manufacturers to reduce their presence, and consumers have a right to expect lower levels.
Fairlife's Response and Broader Context
Following the publication of the investigation and the letter, Fairlife's response has been limited. The company reportedly did not provide a comment or a clear plan of action to Consumer Reports, despite the group’s direct request for a response. This lack of transparency has raised further concerns among consumer advocates. The issue of phthalates adds to a history of controversy surrounding the Fairlife brand, which has also faced public scrutiny and lawsuits over animal welfare concerns. In 2025, separate allegations of ongoing animal abuse at supplier farms and potential environmental violations were reported, following a previous 2022 settlement related to similar claims.
How Phthalates Enter Food Products
Phthalates can contaminate food and drinks at various stages of production, packaging, and handling. The source of the contamination can include the materials used to manufacture packaging, processing equipment, and even the industrial environment. This ubiquitous presence makes them difficult to avoid entirely, but the significant disparity in levels found between different products in the Consumer Reports testing demonstrates that it is possible to minimize exposure. For health-conscious consumers, this news is particularly relevant since protein shakes are often consumed regularly.
Comparison: Fairlife Core Power vs. Other Protein Options
To help consumers make informed decisions, here is a comparison of Fairlife Core Power with other protein shake considerations, highlighting key factors raised by Consumer Reports and other industry analyses.
| Feature | Fairlife Core Power (Post-CR Report) | Other Protein Shakes/Brands | DIY Protein Shakes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Primary Concern | High phthalate levels detected by Consumer Reports. | Can vary; some brands may also contain contaminants or high sugar content. | Dependent on ingredient quality; avoids pre-packaging concerns. |
| Ingredient Base | Ultra-filtered milk base. | Can be whey isolate, casein, plant-based proteins, or a blend. | Whole foods (e.g., milk, yogurt, fruit) and protein powder. |
| Processing Level | Ultra-processed, according to the Environmental Working Group (EWG). | Varies widely; some are highly processed, others less so. | Minimal processing, controlled by the preparer. |
| Transparency | Criticized by Consumer Reports for lack of response regarding phthalates. | Varies by company; some provide detailed third-party testing results. | Complete transparency based on chosen ingredients. |
| Taste | Often praised for smooth, milky flavor. | Varies depending on brand, protein type, and sweeteners. | Fully customizable to personal preference. |
| Cost | Price can be high depending on retailer. | Can vary from budget-friendly to premium pricing. | Varies based on quality and type of ingredients. |
Conclusion: Navigating Fairlife's Findings and Seeking Alternatives
The Consumer Reports investigation into Fairlife protein shakes highlights significant food safety and chemical contamination concerns that consumers should be aware of. The detection of high levels of phthalates in the Core Power line, combined with Fairlife's alleged lack of response to CR and past animal welfare issues, casts a shadow over the brand. For consumers seeking alternatives, options range from other pre-packaged shakes to homemade concoctions, with varying levels of quality, ingredients, and processing. The report serves as a critical reminder to evaluate product claims and conduct personal research, especially for frequently consumed items. Moving forward, continued consumer demand for transparency and a focus on minimizing contaminants will be crucial for holding food manufacturers accountable. To learn more about food contaminants, the Consumer Reports website offers additional information on the chemicals that may be present in food.
What can consumers do?
When faced with these findings, consumers have several options to minimize exposure to potential contaminants. They can reduce consumption of the products in question, research other brands for products with lower processing levels, or prepare their own protein shakes using whole food ingredients and third-party tested powders. Avoiding plastic food storage and limiting fast food intake are also recommended general strategies for reducing exposure to plasticizers.
Key Takeaways
- High Phthalate Levels: Consumer Reports found very high concentrations of plasticizer chemicals, or phthalates, in Fairlife Core Power High Protein Chocolate Milk Shakes during a 2024 investigation.
- Significant Health Risks: Phthalates have been linked to serious health issues, including hormonal disruption, infertility, and an increased risk of certain cancers.
- Cumulative Exposure: The health risks are considered cumulative, meaning repeated exposure to small amounts over time can increase negative effects.
- Lack of Company Response: Fairlife did not provide a definitive response to Consumer Reports regarding the findings and corrective actions, according to a CR representative.
- Broader Concerns: This report adds to existing concerns about Fairlife's brand, which has also faced allegations and legal action over animal welfare issues at its supplier dairies.
