When news headlines raised concerns about lead found in protein powders sold in the United States, students in a Trent University chemistry lab didn’t just read about the issue, they investigated it themselves. 

Drawing inspiration from the Consumers Reports’ study reported on by CBC, School of Environment and Forensic Science professor Dr. Mary‑Claire Buell brought current affairs into the classroom. She invited her Introduction to Environmental Chemistry and Toxicology students to carry out an equivalent experiment: testing for heavy metals in protein powders sold in Canada. 

“It felt meaningful to work with topical and authentic science that pertains to human health,” said Environmental and Resource Science student Josh Coulter (Champlain College). “As students, we don’t always pay attention to what is in our food, and this experiment gave us the opportunity to explore that." 

Initial results mirrored the findings from south of the border: extractions showed very low to zero detectable lead, and in the few cases where minimal amounts were found, traces were limited to plant-based products.  

"This experiment was a great opportunity because it shows how contaminants move through ecosystems, into our food sources, and how humans are part of that system,” said Professor Buell. “When we manipulate and concentrate our food sources, we can sometimes also increase our own exposure, and that’s a powerful realization for students.” 

In addition to physical health implications, the project also showed students the importance of scientific literacy and communications, helping students think critically about what they put in their body and the media and information they consume. 

“This project was really cool because we got to apply our technical and analytical skills in a really tangible way, and has also made me more aware of what I’m reading online and how science is being talked about,” said Josh. 

“Bringing current issues and real science directly into the teaching lab is exactly the kind of responsive approach that keeps students engaged and excited about learning,” said Prof. Buell. 

Learn more about Environmental & Resource Science/Studies at Trent.