Multiple Scandals Rock the Core Power Protein Shake
For a product marketed for fitness and recovery, the Core Power protein shake has endured more than its share of controversy. Owned by Fairlife and distributed by Coca-Cola, the beverage has come under fire from consumer watchdogs, animal rights groups, and class-action lawyers. The issues range from concerns over ingredient safety to the ethical sourcing of its dairy. Understanding the full scope of these problems requires breaking down each allegation separately to see the complete picture.
The Phthalate Contamination Report
One of the most concerning aspects of the Core Power protein shake controversy stems from a 2024 report by Consumer Reports (CR). The study tested 85 different foods for plastic chemicals and found Fairlife's Core Power High Protein Chocolate Shake to contain nearly 25,000 nanograms of phthalates per serving—one of the highest levels recorded.
Phthalates are plasticizers, chemicals used to make plastics more durable and flexible. However, they are known endocrine disruptors and have been linked to a long list of health issues, including:
- Reproductive harm
- Birth defects
- Kidney and liver damage
- Interference with hormone function
The CR report specifically urged Fairlife to take corrective action to protect consumers, but Fairlife did not respond to the letter. Additionally, some product listings for Core Power shakes carry a Proposition 65 warning for California consumers, noting exposure to chemicals like Butyl benzyl phthalate (BBP) which is known to cause reproductive harm.
The Artificial Ingredients and Additives Debate
Beyond the plastic chemical issue, several ingredients within the Core Power shake have drawn heavy criticism from nutrition experts. Publications like Eat This, Not That! have cited these shakes as potentially unhealthy due to their highly processed nature and specific additives.
Breaking Down the Health Concerns
Critics point to the following ingredients as key sources of concern:
- Artificial Sweeteners: Core Power uses both sucralose and acesulfame potassium (Ace-K). Some studies have linked these sweeteners to gut microbiome disruption, weakened insulin sensitivity, and potential carcinogenic effects in animal studies.
- Carrageenan: This thickening agent, derived from seaweed, has been linked to gut inflammation and irritation in some animal studies and has been flagged by nutrition experts as an unwelcome ingredient, particularly for those with a sensitive gastrointestinal system.
- "Natural Flavors": The use of this vague term on the label is concerning to some, as it can hide a wide array of chemical additives.
Lawsuits Over Labeling and Animal Cruelty
Fairlife, and by extension Core Power, has also been embroiled in legal battles that undermine consumer trust. A class-action lawsuit filed in 2020 alleged that the labeling of the Core Power vanilla shakes was misleading.
Understanding the Labeling Allegations
The lawsuit claimed that the vanilla flavor was primarily derived from "Natural Flavors" rather than actual vanilla beans, leading consumers to believe they were purchasing a product made with more natural ingredients than it contained. The complaint argued this constituted deceptive and misleading advertising for which consumers paid a premium.
The Animal Welfare Scandal
Another significant blow came from a class-action lawsuit and undercover video evidence exposed by an animal rights organization. The allegations claimed that Fairlife was sourcing its milk from dairies with inhumane and abusive practices, including:
- Routine beatings of cattle.
- Forced and premature separation of calves from their mothers.
- Poor transport conditions leading to broken bones in cows.
While Fairlife stated it would cease sourcing from the dairies in question, the controversy damaged the brand's ethical reputation and contradicted its marketing, which promoted the humane treatment of cows.
Core Power vs. The Alternatives: A Comparison
| Feature | Core Power Protein Shake | Higher-Quality Alternatives | Key Takeaway |
|---|---|---|---|
| Protein Source | Ultra-filtered conventional dairy | Organic, grass-fed dairy or plant-based proteins | Core Power's dairy source has faced criticism for animal welfare and conventional practices. |
| Sweeteners | Sucralose, Acesulfame Potassium, Stevia, Monk Fruit | Stevia, Monk Fruit, or naturally low-sugar | Critics raise health concerns about Core Power's artificial sweeteners. |
| Additives | Carrageenan, "Natural Flavors", Cellulose Gel/Gum | Fewer additives, clear labeling | Core Power's thickening and flavoring additives are a point of contention for some consumers. |
| Contaminants | Tested high for phthalates | Transparent testing and reporting | Contamination risk is a major factor in the Core Power controversy. |
| Flavoring | Lawsuits over potentially misleading vanilla flavor | Clearly stated natural flavoring | The integrity of Core Power's flavor claims has been legally challenged. |
How to Choose a Healthier Protein Shake
Given the controversies, many consumers are looking for alternative protein sources. For a healthier option, consider:
- Reading Labels Carefully: Look for clean, straightforward ingredient lists without artificial sweeteners, flavors, or unnecessary thickeners.
- Prioritizing Organic: Choosing organic or grass-fed dairy products can mitigate concerns about hormones and antibiotics.
- Considering Plant-Based Options: For those avoiding dairy altogether, pea, soy, or hemp protein shakes offer alternatives with different ingredient profiles.
- Making Your Own Shakes: The most controlled option is to create a protein shake at home, blending quality protein powder with fresh, whole-food ingredients.
For more information on food contaminants and how to limit exposure, Consumer Reports offers detailed guidance on avoiding plasticizers in food (https://www.consumerreports.org/health/food-contaminants/the-plastic-chemicals-hiding-in-your-food-a7358224781/).
Conclusion: A Matter of Transparency and Health
The Core Power protein shake controversy is multifaceted, combining ethical concerns about animal welfare with serious health questions regarding ingredients and contaminants. While the shakes remain popular for their high protein content and taste, reports of phthalate contamination, coupled with the use of artificial sweeteners and thickening agents, have eroded consumer trust. For consumers, the best path forward involves being informed, reading labels diligently, and considering cleaner, more transparent protein options that align with their health and ethical standards.
