California Advances Protein Safety Bill Targeting Heavy Metal Contamination
Contact: Emily DiFrisco, emilyd@ceh.org
SACRAMENTO, CALIFORNIA – Today California’s Senate Health Committee approved Senate Bill 1033, authored by Senator Steve Padilla (D-San Diego) and sponsored by the Center for Environmental Health (CEH), Environmental Working Group, and Consumer Reports. The bill aims to protect consumers by requiring testing and disclosure of heavy metals in protein products sold in California.
“Many people use protein products daily as part of a healthy diet, but they could be unknowingly ingesting heavy metals that can accumulate and harm our brains and body systems. SB 1033 would equip consumers with crucial information about the heavy metal content of protein products so they can make safer choices for their health,” said Shakoora Azimi-Gaylon, Senior Director, Toxic Exposures and Pollution Prevention, CEH.
As demand for protein powders, drinks, and fortified foods has surged in recent years, these products have become widely available and marketed to consumers of all ages. However, this rapid growth has outpaced regulatory oversight, raising concerns about product safety. An October 2025 investigation by Consumer Reports found that several protein products contained dangerous levels of heavy metals, including arsenic, cadmium, and lead. Some products tested contained between 1,200% and 1,600% above recommended safety thresholds, posing significant health risks, particularly for individuals who consume these products regularly.
SB 1033 would require manufacturers of protein products to test for heavy metals and publicly disclose the results. The bill would also prohibit the sale of products that fail to meet established safety standards, ensuring consumers can make informed decisions and avoid potentially harmful products.
California has previously enacted landmark protections regulating harmful substances in products such as baby food, prenatal vitamins, menstrual products, and cosmetics. SB 1033 continues that commitment by expanding safeguards to the rapidly growing protein supplement market.