Huel is safe. Every batch is independently tested by accredited laboratories in the UK and US, and all results meet strict global safety standards.
Heavy metals in Huel products — the facts
Huel Black Edition is NSF Certified NSF Certification is one of the strictest global safety standards. The most recent NSF test showed no detectable lead in Huel Black Edition. Typical results per serving for Huel Black Edition include approximately 1.8 µg of lead, 1.5 µg of cadmium, and arsenic and mercury below detection limits.
Trace minerals occur naturally Lead and cadmium occur naturally in soil and are found in virtually all plant-based foods — from oats to spinach to rice. The presence of trace amounts is not unusual. For example, Huel Black Edition contains approximately 1.5–2.2 µg of lead per serving, which is comparable to levels found in common foods like two slices of white bread.
What matters is the threshold Huel testing data shows heavy metal levels consistent with everyday meals and well within international food safety standards. Our products meet or exceed global regulatory limits. For instance, Huel Black Edition typically contains ~1.8 µg of lead, ~1.5 µg of cadmium per serving, and arsenic and mercury levels below detection limits. These results comply with FDA, EU, UK, and NSF food safety standards.
Every batch is tested Every batch of Huel products is independently tested by accredited laboratories in both the UK and US to ensure safety and consistency. These laboratories are ISO 17025-accredited, ensuring the highest standards of testing accuracy and reliability.
Why concerns arose
Recent media coverage about heavy metals in protein powders has raised awareness about this issue. Whilst trace minerals naturally occur in plant-based foods, Huel takes this seriously and provides transparent testing data to reassure customers. Some concerns reference California Proposition 65, which applies extremely conservative thresholds much lower than internationally recognized food safety standards. Independent testing confirms that Huel Black Edition’s heavy metal levels are typical of everyday foods and remain within broader scientific and regulatory safety guidance.
Learn more
For a detailed breakdown of our testing data, safety standards, and how Huel compares to other foods, visit: Heavy Metals in Huel – What You Need to Know
We stand behind our products
We stand firmly behind Huel products and the science that supports them. If you have specific questions about heavy metals in Huel or would like to discuss our testing and safety standards in detail, say "talk to a human" and we'll connect you with a specialist.