Story perspectives

Seven Consumers Sue Costco Over Lead-Laced Orgain Powder

7/10/2026

Summary

Costco Sued

Seven consumers sued Costco in Washington, claiming it sold Orgain powder contaminated with lead, cadmium and arsenic.
Consumer Reports measured lead 67 ppb (143 % of benchmark), cadmium 70.3 ppb and arsenic 19.8 ppb.
The complaint alleges consumer-protection and false-advertising violations in six states and seeks damages, a disclosure order and an injunction.
Orgain says the product meets safety standards while Costco has not commented, noting details are supplied by the manufacturer.

Summary

Paxton Probes Protein

Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton announced an investigation of protein-powder manufacturers after Consumer Reports and Clean Label Project findings.
The Clean Label Project’s test of 160 protein powders found 47% exceeded California’s limits for toxic heavy metals in a serving.
Analysts warned a protein-powder shortage may be imminent and said consumers should turn to protein sources, noting Paxton framed probe as part of “Make America Healthy Again” effort.

History

Historical Context

California voters approved Proposition 65 in 1986 by a 63%-37% margin, creating a statewide warning regime for chemicals that cause cancer or reproductive toxicity. Since its 1988 enforcement began, more than 30,000 claims targeting over 100,000 products have generated $370 million in settlements, prompting widespread product reformulations and ongoing national supplement scrutiny.

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Costco Sued

Seven consumers sued Costco in Washington, claiming it sold Orgain powder contaminated with lead, cadmium and arsenic.
Consumer Reports measured lead 67 ppb (143 % of benchmark), cadmium 70.3 ppb and arsenic 19.8 ppb.
The complaint alleges consumer-protection and false-advertising violations in six states and seeks damages, a disclosure order and an injunction.
Orgain says the product meets safety standards while Costco has not commented, noting details are supplied by the manufacturer.

1 / 3