A recent study has revealed significant discrepancies in the labeling accuracy and safety of popular herbal-based protein powders available in India. The research, published in the journal Medicine, indicates that over 70% of these products do not meet quality standards or fulfill their advertised claims. Additionally, 14% of the samples were found to contain harmful fungal aflatoxins, while 8% showed traces of pesticide residue. Continue reading to learn about the potentially serious side effects associated with these findings.
A groundbreaking study examining the majority of protein powders sold and consumed in India has revealed a concerning trend. It was observed that a significant portion of these supplements provide inaccurate information, fail to meet quality standards, and make misleading advertising claims.
The study, which investigated 36 well-known protein powder brands, encompassing those containing herbal and dietary supplements such as vitamins, minerals, and other natural ingredients, was published in the journal Medicine.
Protein powders rank among the top dietary supplements favored by athletes, physically active adults, and soldiers seeking to enhance muscle mass, expedite exercise recovery, and boost performance.
Results of the study
The study showed more than 70 per cent of the 36 supplements had inaccurate protein information, with some brands offering only half of what they claimed.
Also, 14 per cent of the samples were loaded with harmful fungal aflatoxins, while 8 per cent showed traces of pesticide residue.
Authors of the study clinical researchers associated with Rajagiri Hospital in Kerala and a technology entrepreneur from the US slammed the Indian-made herbal protein-based supplements saying they are poor in quality.
“We demonstrate that the protein-based herbal and dietary supplement industry requires stringent scrutiny, regulation, and basic safety studies before being marketed,” the authors said.
What is whey protein?
According to experts, despite being a popular fitness and dietary supplement, whey protein the liquid that separates from milk during the cheese-making process, filtered, refined, and spray-dried into whey protein powder is highly nutritional.
There are three main types of whey protein, and the difference between them is how they are processed:
Whey protein concentrate
Contains roughly 35-80 per cent protein apart from lactose, fat, and minerals from milk.
Whey protein isolate
Contains 90-96 per cent protein and very little lactose or fat.
Whey protein hydrolysate
This form is pre-digested, which helps your body absorb it faster.
Apart from helping the athletes gain muscle, it also helps you recover from exercise, and gain strength as part of a resistance training routine. In addition, studies say whey protein aids weight lossfor people who are obese and overweight.
Consuming more protein may help people feel fuller, which could help with shedding kilos.
Safety issues
While protein powders have several reported health benefits, experts are concerned about their safety.
The National Institutes of Health advise caution when consuming high amounts of protein. Experts say it can cause digestive issues, allergy, constipation, nutritional deficiency, and can damage your kidneys and liver as well.