Over 6,000 Tubs of a Popular Protein Powder Recalled at the Highest Risk Level

Last week, CNN was one of the first outlets to publish the finding that due to amounts of “heavy metals” in the earth, some chocolate-flavored organic protein powders were found to contain more cadmium and lead than other types and flavors of powder. Just as trimming down, getting lean, and getting plenty of protein become greater focuses this time of year, one of the most popular protein powders on the market has been recalled with the FDA’s highest warning—and this recall seems to have nothing to do with excessive mineral content.

This was first announced on December 17, 2024, when the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) reported that Orgain, an Irvine, CA-based company, had recalled a batch of its 30-gram (g) Plant Protein Complete Protein Powder due to undeclared allergens. Five hundred twenty-three 12-count cases of the supplement, or 6,276 two-pound, one-ounce tubs of chocolate flavored powder, was found to contain peanut residue. (In the December recall notice, the company also referred to the recalled product by a second name, “30g Protein Organic Plant Based Powder – Chocolate.”)

Now, a January 10, 2025 update revealed that the FDA assigned the incident a Class I risk—the FDA’s highest risk in a three-tier system, making this “a situation in which there is a reasonable probability that the use of, or exposure to, a violative product will cause serious adverse health consequences or death.”

Orgain stated the recalled product “was distributed nationwide both in retail stores and online,” while Costco, Walmart and Amazon are just a few of the retail chains that have been known to carry the brand. The recalled units are reportedly packaged in plastic tubs marked with blue labels, and can be spotted using the following identifying information:

• Expiration date: June 20, 2026
• UPC Code: 8 51770 00760 3
• Product Lot Code: 4172-02-P

According to the Cleveland Clinic, peanut allergies occur when the body mistakes peanut proteins for something more threatening, and the immune system responds with an allergic symptoms such as swelling, hives, or vomiting. “Peanut allergies are the most common food-related cause of anaphylaxis, which can lead to swelling in your airways or a severe drop in blood pressure,” Cleveland Clinic experts explain. “Call 911 (or your local emergency service number) or get to an emergency room immediately if you have face, mouth or throat swelling, difficulty breathing or swallowing, or feel faint,” they advise.

According to a company announcement published on the FDA’s site, Orgain’s voluntary recall was initiated “out of an abundance of caution following a report of an allergic reaction from one consumer.” It’s said no other adverse reactions have been reported to date in relation to the recall.

Among a multitude of brands to choose from in the protein powder space, Orgain has risen to the top of the crop, earning name recognition and a loyal customer base. In fact, just last week on January 7, another of Orgain’s protein powders was named the “best plant-based protein powder with simple ingredients” by New York Magazine’s The Strategist—recognition that almost certainly would have boosted the brand’s sales.

If you have purchased the affected products, the company advises you should discontinue their use immediately. For instructions on receiving a refund, you can contact the Orgain Consumer Care Team via the details accessible through the recall link above.