Costco, one of the most popular warehouse retailers in the U.S., is facing a class-action lawsuit. On July 8, 2026, The Seattle Times shared that attorneys cited independent lab testing and allegedly found heavy metals in Orgain’s plant-based protein powder sold at Costco.
The products were listed as having ‘quality ingredients and higher standards,’ which the suit alleged was misleading. Details around the case were made available by ABC News, which reported that the products were tainted with heavy metals, including lead, cadmium, and arsenic.
The suit claims that Costco sold these products knowing they contained dangerous levels of heavy metals despite marketing them as clean and nutritious protein powder. Previous testing in 2025 from Consumer Reports showed the brand contained contaminants. Specifically, Orgain’s protein powder (Organic Vanilla Bean flavor) was found to exceed Consumer Reports’ “level of concern” by over 143%.
Costco Faces Class-Action Lawsuit Over Alleged Heavy Metals in Organic Protein Powder
Steve Berman, who represents the plaintiffs, believes Costco had knowledge or should have known that the Orgain protein powder was contaminated:
“Consumers nationwide trust Costco,” Steve Berman, the representative of the plaintiffs, said. “Based on our investigation and product testing, we believe Costco knew or should have known that its Orgain protein powder failed to live up to its promises of safety and quality.”
As of this writing, Costco has yet to issue a statement regarding the recent legal troubles. This isn’t an isolated event; Consumer Reports made headlines after independent lab testing found high levels of lead and other heavy metals in 23 popular protein powders sold nationwide.
Protein powders are considered dietary supplements and are regulated by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA). Currently, the FDA isn’t required to test or approve them before being sold. This leaves manufacturers and businesses responsible for ensuring the safety of their products, along with quality ingredients.
Protein powders remain an essential tool for athletes of all walks of life, especially those in the fitness and bodybuilding community. These types of controversies have pushed icons like Arnold Schwarzenegger to get involved. He believes heavy metals in protein powders are unavoidable and said to focus on finding third-party-verified products instead of testing your luck.
In time, Costco could release a statement to provide additional insight into the lawsuit. Looking ahead, the plaintiffs are seeking a jury trial in the case.
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