What's That Rash? What is lead doing in protein powder?
Oct 28, 2025
The hosts dive into the unsettling discovery of lead in protein powders, sparking concern among fitness enthusiasts. They explore how lead ends up in these supplements, particularly in plant-based proteins, and discuss alarming findings from recent studies. Historical anecdotes illustrate humanity's long battle with lead exposure, from ancient Rome to 1960s Australia. The conversation emphasizes the risks of chronic lead exposure, especially for vulnerable groups, and offers cautious advice for those considering protein supplements.
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How Lead Gets Into Protein Powder
- Lead can enter protein powders through environmental contamination and become concentrated in plant-based ingredients like pea protein.
- Machinery, soil near smelters, old paint, and imported ingredients all increase contamination risk.
Lead Persists And Harms Developing Brains
- Lead accumulates in bone and interferes with ion processes, raising long-term risks even at low chronic exposures.
- Children absorb more lead and suffer lasting neurological and developmental harm.
Roman Sapper Had Extremely High Lead
- Romans boiled grape juice in lead vessels to sweeten wine and produced 'sapper' with very high lead concentrations.
- Historian Herb Needleman linked lead exposure to saturnine gout and wider Roman health problems.