Protein Powder Safety & Testing FAQ

Are protein powders safe to consume every day?

Yes. When used as directed, protein powders are safe for daily use. At NOW, we test every batch for contaminants such as heavy metals and microbes to ensure they meet or exceed federal safety standards and our own stricter internal limits.

Why do protein powders sometimes contain trace amounts of heavy metals?

Trace levels of elements like lead, arsenic, or cadmium can occur naturally in soil and water and are absorbed by plants such as peas, rice, or hemp. These minerals are not added intentionally and are present in many plant-based foods. The key is that levels remain well below established safety thresholds.

What safety standards does NOW use for heavy metals? NOW follows U.S. FDA guidance, and internationally recognized standards. In fact, our internal specifications are often stricter than regulatory limits to provide an additional margin of safety.

Does NOW test every batch of protein powder for contaminants?

Yes. Every batch is tested for heavy metals, microbial contaminants, and identity verification using state-of-the-art analytical equipment in our in-house ISO-accredited laboratories.

What does “Prop 65 warning” mean on some supplement labels?

California’s Prop 65 law requires warnings even when levels of naturally occurring minerals are far below federal safety limits. It’s a right-to-know label, not an indication that a product is unsafe.  Prop 65 is not applicable in Canada, however our products are in compliance with Proposition 65.

How does NOW ensure protein powder quality?

We source raw materials only from qualified suppliers who pass our rigorous audit and testing program. Every protein ingredient we use goes through rigorous testing for identity, purity, and safety in our ISO-accredited, in-house laboratories, which are among the most advanced in the industry. Our team performs more than 31,000 tests each month to make sure what’s on the label is exactly what’s in the bottle. Each batch of our protein powder is carefully analyzed using state-of-the-art technology to confirm protein content, verify ingredient identity, and test for heavy metals and potential contaminants. Many of our protein powders are certified by Informed Sport, confirming that they are free from all substances banned by the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA)—a trusted assurance for athletes and anyone seeking clean nutrition. 

Are protein powders regulated by the FDA?

At NOW, our protein powders are classified as conventional foods, rather than as dietary supplements. This means they are regulated by the Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) and FDA under the food regulations (21 CFR 117), which cover food safety, labeling, and CGMPs (Current Good Manufacturing Practices).

How does NOW compare to other brands in terms of heavy metal levels?

Independent testing consistently shows NOW products are well within safe limits — often among the cleanest on the market. Our commitment is to go beyond compliance and ensure consumer confidence through science-based quality assurance.

For more information about our NOW Quality Testing visit nowquality.ca