Costco sued over Orgain protein powder heavy metal allegations

Key Points:

• Costco faces a class action lawsuit alleging its Orgain protein powders contain dangerous levels of heavy metals like lead, arsenic, and cadmium, with plaintiffs claiming the retailer failed to properly screen or disclose these contaminants.
• Independent tests showed Orgain's Vanilla Bean flavor exceeded California's Proposition 65 lead limits by over 600%, and Consumer Reports found elevated heavy metal levels in plant-based protein powders, recommending limited consumption.
• Orgain defends the safety of its products, stating they comply with food safety standards despite trace environmental substances, while Costco notes product details are supplied by manufacturers and hosted by third parties.
• The lawsuit follows broader concerns prompting legislative efforts in California for mandatory heavy metal testing in protein products and investigations by Texas authorities into manufacturers.
• Health experts warn that lead exposure has no safe level and can accumulate in the body, posing risks especially to children, pregnant women, and older adults, linking chronic exposure to serious health issues.