Best Chocolate and Vanilla Protein Powders and Shakes, Based on CR’s Lead Testing

Since 2010, Consumer Reports has conducted independent, unbiased tests of protein powders and shakes to identify products contaminated with troubling levels of toxic heavy metals. Our fall 2025 tests found that for more than two-thirds of the 23 products we analyzed, a single serving contained more lead than CR’s food safety experts say is safe to consume daily. Some products also contained worrisome levels of cadmium or inorganic arsenic. But others—including the protein powders CR analyzed in a subsequent round of testing published in January—contained much less concerning levels of lead.

Below you’ll find all of the protein powders and shakes that our lab tests found were better choices for daily protein powder users. (That said, most people don’t need to take supplements to hit their protein goals, as CR has previously reported.) For more information on how CR’s level of concern for lead was selected and how we determine the daily limits, see our protein powder testing FAQ.