Contaminated protein bars may bring products liability claims

When January rolls around, many people in Pennsylvania make resolutions for a better life. In addition to joining a gym or finding a jogging buddy, they may change their diets, lowering their carb intake and increasing the amount of protein. The makers of protein bars and shakes make many promises about the contribution these products can make to a lean and muscular body, but a recent study showed that those claims may not be accurate. In fact, some may have ingredients that could lead to products liability lawsuits.

A company decided to test the claims of several protein bar makers to see if the bars had the amount of protein advertised on their labels. In addition to grams of protein, 20 bars were tested for calories, fats, carbohydrates and other nutrients. Several of the bars had much lower protein, calcium and iron than their labels promoted. However, the most surprising results came when the test for heavy metals was conducted.

Four of the leading protein bars contained more than the acceptable daily limit of 0.5 mg of lead. One other bar also failed the test for cadmium and mercury in addition to lead. In explaining the results, the founder of the testing lab said that the high-metal bars are plant-based, and plants absorb metals from the soil. In the same way fish may transmit mercury to humans through bioaccumulation, so plants transmit lead and other metals.

Even at very low levels, these substances are known to cause cancer and birth defects. Products containing these metals may put consumers at risk. Those in Pennsylvania who believe they may have gotten ill from using plant-based protein supplements may wish to consult an attorney for advice on the best course of action for pursuing a possible products liability claim.

This blog entry was posted on behalf of [nap_names id=”FIRM-NAME-1″], and does not necessarily reflect the views or opinions of the firm or its attorneys. The information presented in this blog is for informational purposes only and is not intended to be legal advice.

Source: foxbusiness.com, “Heavy Metals, Lead Found in Popular Protein Bars“, Jade Scipioni, Jan. 5, 2017