04/09/2026
I am concerned about:
women of a reproductive age,
the “protein trend” and
the ‘green washing’ marketing of the “natural-ness” of plant based protein powders & bars …. 🤦♀️
Let me talk to you about the accumulation of heavy metals (lead, arsenic, cadmium & mercury) in the body and the risk to a baby!
Plants like pea, h**p & rice all draw up minerals directly from the ground as they grow. Then when you turn these raw crops into dense powders it can concentrate any heavy metals present. And then if you like your powders to be chocolate flavoured these ones are even higher due to metal absorption of the cacao plant! 🌱
Now in NZ the majority of our brands undergo third party testing and our standards are very strict.
However, this is my concern … the “protein” trend is encouraging young people to “boost” their diet and many are doing this with powders & bars often multiple times a day - especially if they are vegan or vegetarian.
Women of a reproductive age are high users of these products and can be often unaware of being pregnant for several weeks/months.
I think it is VERY important to reduce your exposure to heavy metals by:
1) moving to animal based alternatives
2) using your plant protein powders & bars OCCASIONALLY rather than multiple times a day
3) mix these plant based products with more whole foods
4) rotate your brands
Heavy metals do accumulate in the body over time, and can cross the placenta.
These heavy metals are associated with:
Low birth weight,
Pre-term birth,
Cognitive impairment,
Motor function impairment.
There is NO established safe threshold for heavy metals during a pregnancy!
NZ Registered Nutritionists & Dietitians are valuable sources of nutritional pre-natal support for women.
Just because something is marketed as ‘natural’ does not mean it is better or safer than Real Whole Food.
Happy to answer any questions 😊
