Beloved Protein Powder Sold at Costco Hit With Lawsuit Over 'Dangerous' Levels of Lead

A popular protein powder sold at Costco is facing serious allegations after a new lawsuit claimed it contains dangerous levels of heavy metals, including lead.

A class action lawsuit filed on Tuesday, July 7, in the U.S. District Court for the Western District of Washington alleges that Orgain Organic Protein Powder, sold at Costco, contains dangerous levels of heavy metals, including lead and cadmium.

According to court documents obtained by People, a group of seven plaintiffs claims Costco violated the Washington Consumer Protection Act by marketing the protein powder as being made with "quality ingredients and higher standards" and providing "good clean fuel," alleging those claims are "not true" and "misleading" to consumers.

The lawsuit also argues that, "Heavy metals are known to pose significant and adverse health risks and consequences to humans," adding, "It is well-recognized that there are no safe levels of human exposure to any of the heavy metals, including cadmium and lead."

The outlet notes that Orgain has denied the allegations at this time. The plaintiffs are seeking a jury trial, along with damages and restitution, though the amount has yet to be determined.

What flavors of protein powder are affected

The products specifically named in the lawsuit include Orgain Organic Protein Powder in both the Vanilla Bean and Creamy Chocolate Fudge flavors.

Costco continues to expand

The lawsuit comes as Costco continues a major expansion across the U.S. The retailer recently opened new warehouses in Syracuse, Utah, and Pensacola, Florida, with seven more locations expected to open in August, including stores in New York, Texas, Wisconsin, Minnesota, Georgia, and Missouri. According to USA Today, Costco plans to open approximately 26 warehouses during its 2026 fiscal year, with even more planned in the years ahead.

For now, the allegations remain unproven, and the case will move through the court system before any final determination is made.

Related: Costco Just Opened First of Its Kind Gas Station and Fans Have Mixed Feelings

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This story was originally published July 11, 2026 at 9:00 AM.