Heavy Metals in Food
Heavy metals like arsenic, cadmium, and lead are naturally found in the soil, but the widespread use of leaded gasoline, lead-based pesticides, and other manufacturing processes have contributed to higher levels in products that are farmed and fished, and even your tap water. That’s why for decades CR has tested a wide variety of foods, drinks, and supplements for heavy metals: So you can choose products with lower levels and help keep your family safe.
Updated July 8, 2026
Featured
Reducing the Risk From Arsenic in Rice
New CR tests of 52 rice products found the heavy metal in all of them—but some contain less than others. Here are ways to protect yourself, including a cooking method that removes half the arsenic.
We Tested 49 More Baby Formulas for Lead and Arsenic
Readers Asked Us to Test These 5 Protein Powders. All Had Low Levels of Lead.
No, You Shouldn’t Avoid Fruits and Vegetables Due to Cyclospora
Cyclospora-Linked Lettuce Reached 27 States, Including Walmart and Jack in the Box Locations
Reducing the Risk From Arsenic in Rice
We Tested 41 Baby Formulas for Lead and Arsenic
Best Chocolate and Vanilla Protein Powders and Shakes, Based on CR’s Lead Testing
Hidden Dangers in Our Food Supply
Baby Formulas & Kids' Foods
