70% of top ‘protein supplements sold in India are mislabeled with wrong info, 14% contain toxins

Examination of 36 Protein Supplements

A groundbreaking study examining the top-selling protein powders in India revealed that most of these supplements fail to meet quality standards, accurately label their ingredients, or deliver on their advertised promises. Researchers from Rajagiri Hospital in Kerala, along with a technology entrepreneur from the US, conducted a thorough examination of 36 protein powders, including those with herbal ingredients and dietary supplements such as vitamins and minerals. This comprehensive analysis,was recently published in the reputable journal Medicine.

Protein powder ranks among the top choices for athletes, fitness enthusiasts, and even soldiers aiming to boost muscle growth, speed up post-workout recovery, and enhance overall performance. They’re like the building blocks for bodybuilders, providing essential proteins and amino acids vital for strength and endurance.

The research reported that over 70% of the 36 supplements analyzed provided misleading information about their protein content, with certain brands offering only half of what they advertised. Making things more concerning, the research shows that 14% of the samples contained dangerous fungal aflatoxins, and 8% showed signs of pesticide residue, highlighting potential health risks associated with these products.These findings have sparked heightened concerns about the quality and safety of protein powders widely available in India, especially considering the immense market worth estimated at a 33,028 crores as reported by the IMARC Group in 2023.

This study’s findings coincide with recent efforts by the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI). Responding to a parliamentary inquiry, Union Health Minister Mansukh Mandaviya disclosed that in 2022-23, the FSSAI initiated numerous legal action 38,053 civil and 4,817 criminal cases against companies marketing non-compliant food products, encompassing protein powders and dietary supplements.

When thinking about incorporating protein powder into your diet, exercise caution. Dr. Amogh Dudhwewala, a gastroenterology consultant at Yatharth Hospitals, warns that contaminated protein powders containing toxins like heavy metals can pose a serious health risk. Lead, cadmium, and mercury, found in such contaminants, are harmful to crucial organs such as the kidneys and liver.

He said, “Continuous consumption of protein supplements containing these contaminants can lead to gradual accumulation of these toxins in the body, impairing the functions of the kidneys and liver over time. This can manifest as abnormalities in liver function tests, indicating damage to liver cells. These contaminants can exacerbate existing health issues and contribute to the development of conditions such as chronic kidney disease and chronic liver disease.” 

Dr. Dudhewala explained that prolonged exposure to heavy metals can lead to chronic kidney disease because the kidneys face difficulty in effectively filtering and removing these harmful substances. Likewise, the liver may become overburdened with detoxification duties, potentially causing chronic liver disease in the long run.

Dr. Sabine Kapasi, an advisor on public health and healthcare services strategy for the United Nations Covid-19 task, also emphasized the critical importance of implementing stricter regulations and enhancing quality control in the production and labeling of protein supplements.

“It stresses the importance of transparent and accurate product information, enabling consumers to make informed decisions about their health,” she said.

In retrospect, this research emphasizes the critical importance of tighter regulations and better quality control for protein supplements. It’s a reminder for us all to be vigilant about what we consume for our health and well-being.

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