4 min learnNew DelhiAug 12, 2026 07:00 PM IST
Nutritionist Layla Al-Naif has raised considerations round protein dietary supplements after questioning the protection of many protein powders and bars. Talking on Masoom Minawala’s podcast, she mentioned, “Most protein powder, which is all clearly going right into a protein bar, is heavy on the heavy metals, toxins, pesticides. They’re not examined. And third-party examined, if it doesn’t say it, which means it’s not.” She went on to advocate solely a handful of manufacturers that, based on her, meet the mark.
Whereas her remarks have prompted concern amongst health fans and common customers alike, are protein bars actually unsafe? And what does “third-party examined” really imply?
DISCLAIMER: This text is predicated on info from the general public area and/or the specialists we spoke to. At all times seek the advice of your well being practitioner earlier than beginning any routine.
In line with Anshul Singh, Crew Lead, Scientific Diet & Dietetics Division, Artemis Hospitals, “The concern is legitimate. He explains that protein powders and bars are generally made utilizing components comparable to whey, soy, pea and rice proteins, which can soak up hint quantities of heavy metals or pesticide residues from the soil during cultivation or processing.
“Good producers routinely take a look at their merchandise for security. Nevertheless, unbiased third-party testing gives an extra layer of high quality assurance,” Singh says.
He provides that the precise well being danger depends upon a number of elements, together with the extent of contamination, product high quality, how incessantly it’s consumed and an individual’s total dietary publicity over time.
What does ‘third-party examined’ actually imply?
Many complement manufacturers promote themselves as “third-party examined”, however what precisely does that suggest? In line with Singh, third-party testing means an unbiased laboratory, not affiliated with the producer, has evaluated the product.
“These laboratories confirm ingredient accuracy, purity and test for contaminants comparable to heavy metals and dangerous microbes. It helps be sure that what’s printed on the label matches what is definitely contained in the product,” he explains.
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Nevertheless, Singh cautions that the absence of a third-party certification doesn’t robotically imply a product is unsafe or of poor high quality.
“Many respected producers perform rigorous in-house high quality testing. Unbiased certification merely gives customers larger transparency, confidence and reassurance earlier than making a purchase order,” he says.
Are protein bars wholesome?
Protein bars have grow to be more and more standard as fast meal replacements and post-workout snacks. However ought to they grow to be a every day behavior? Singh says they actually have a spot, however not on the expense of complete meals.
“Protein bars are handy throughout busy days, whereas travelling or after train when wholesome meals usually are not available. Nevertheless, they need to by no means substitute whole-food protein sources comparable to eggs, milk, yogurt, fish, rooster, lentils, beans, tofu and nuts,” he says.
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Complete meals, he explains, present high-quality protein together with nutritional vitamins, minerals, healthy fats and fibre, making them nutritionally superior.
He additionally factors out that many industrial protein bars comprise added sugars, synthetic sweeteners and extremely processed components, lowering their total dietary worth when consumed recurrently.
How to decide on a safer protein powder or protein bar
He advises customers to:
* Select merchandise from respected manufacturers with clear ingredient lists.
* Search for unbiased certifications comparable to NSF Licensed for Sport, Knowledgeable Selection, Knowledgeable Sport or USP Verified, wherever out there.
* Choose merchandise with minimal added sugar, no synthetic colors and fewer pointless components.
* Test the manufacturing and expiry dates, make sure the packaging is sealed and purchase solely from dependable sellers.
* Learn the diet label rigorously, undergo verified buyer critiques and keep away from merchandise making unrealistic well being claims.
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“These easy checks may also help customers make safer and extra knowledgeable buying selections,” Singh says.
DISCLAIMER: This text is predicated on info from the general public area and/or the specialists we spoke to. At all times seek the advice of your well being practitioner earlier than beginning any routine.
