Santa Cruz Paleo Whey Protein Powder Chocolate
Santa Cruz Paleo
At a glance
Summary
Santa Cruz Paleo Whey Protein Powder in Chocolate: grass-fed whey protein isolate with cocoa powder, coconut creamer, natural flavors, Himalayan pink salt and monk fruit extract, with no artificial sweeteners or gums. Contains milk and tree nuts (coconut). Independent third-party lab testing (Anresco Laboratories, ICP-MS, March 17, 2026) confirms a clean heavy-metals profile — lead, cadmium, and mercury all None Detected at the 0.001 ppm threshold; arsenic below the quantification limit of 0.004 ppm. The lab data validates the grass-fed dairy sourcing. Sold as a powder.
Contaminants 4
Source: Anresco Laboratories
Lead not detected Not detected
Not detected — below the laboratory's detection limit. This is the strictest possible result: no measurable amount was found. No safe level of lead exposure exists per CDC, AAP, and WHO; this product passes the strictest screen.
Independent third-party lab testing (Anresco Laboratories, ICP-MS Method MF-CHEM-16, sample dated March 17, 2026) reported lead as None Detected — below the lab's detection limit of 0.001 ppm (1 ppb).
Cadmium not detected Not detected
Not detected — below the laboratory's detection limit. This is the strictest possible result: no measurable amount was found. Cadmium is an IARC Group 1 carcinogen; non-detect status is the cleanest possible result.
Independent third-party lab testing (Anresco Laboratories, ICP-MS, March 17, 2026) reported cadmium as None Detected — below the lab's detection limit of 0.001 ppm (1 ppb).
Arsenic <0.004 ppm Not detected
Not detected — below the laboratory's detection limit. This is the strictest possible result: no measurable amount was found.
Independent third-party lab testing (Anresco Laboratories, ICP-MS, March 17, 2026) reported arsenic below the lab's quantification limit of 0.004 ppm (4 ppb) — functionally trace. Arsenic is an IARC Group 1 carcinogen; this whey-source result is dramatically cleaner than every plant protein in the 2024 Consumer Reports survey.
Mercury not detected Not detected
Not detected — below the laboratory's detection limit. This is the strictest possible result: no measurable amount was found. Non-detect status is the cleanest possible result.
Independent third-party lab testing (Anresco Laboratories, ICP-MS, March 17, 2026) reported mercury as None Detected — below the lab's detection limit of 0.001 ppm (1 ppb).
Key ingredients 6
Grass-fed Whey Protein IsolateVery Good
Grass-fed whey protein isolate is a high-quality protein source with a complete amino acid profile, supporting muscle growth and recovery. Being grass-fed indicates a higher nutrient density and better fatty acid composition compared to conventional whey. It is minimally processed, retaining more of its natural nutrients.
Benefits
Provides essential amino acids and supports muscle repair and growth.
Cocoa PowderGood
Cocoa powder is rich in antioxidants and flavonoids, which can support heart health and reduce inflammation. It is a natural ingredient that adds flavor without artificial additives. The processing of cocoa powder retains many of its beneficial compounds.
Risks
Excessive consumption may lead to caffeine-related side effects such as jitteriness.
Benefits
Contains antioxidants that may support cardiovascular health.
Himalayan Pink SaltGood
Beneficial ingredient — whole-food or functional value in this product class.
Risks
Excessive salt intake can lead to hypertension and cardiovascular issues.
Benefits
Contains trace minerals that may be beneficial in small amounts.
Monk Fruit ExtractGood
Beneficial ingredient — whole-food or functional value in this product class.
Benefits
Offers a calorie-free sweetening option without impacting blood sugar.
Coconut CreamerNeutral
Coconut creamer is used to add creaminess and flavor, typically containing coconut milk and sometimes additional stabilizers. It is a natural alternative to dairy creamers but may contain added sugars or fats. The overall impact depends on the specific formulation used.
Risks
May contain added sugars or fats that could contribute to caloric intake.
Benefits
Provides a creamy texture and flavor without dairy.
Natural FlavorsBad
Natural flavors are often used to enhance taste but can be a catch-all for various additives. They lack transparency, making it difficult to assess their health impact. The processing and source of these flavors are not always clear.
Risks
Potential for undisclosed additives or allergens.
Processing
Unprocessed or Minimally Processed Foods
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