I'm deciding whether to start taking protein powders to gain muscle, but have been told by some that protein powders contain traces of steroids and should just stick to natural foods. Others tell me otherwise as they mix scoops of powders made of chemicals they can hardly pronounce into their drinks. Who's right and who's wrong? Should I start using it? And if so, which brand is best?
-Thanks

If you are concerned about it use a pure whey protein powder and mix it into protein drinks. The pure whey powder does not have any other additives.

My friend says he has never heard of and doesn't think it is possible to even have steroids in protein drinks as they are against US law unless prescribed a dr.

He is a body builder and he reccomends musclemilk, he lives by it.

He got me into Bodybuilding.com. They have a lot of good information on all sorts of products. I find them unbiased as well.. meaning they don't get 'paid off' to say good things about whatever company wants to give them a good review. They let you compare prices and ingredients of everything.

I agree. I use whey protein myself, usually GNC brand, and have suffered no adverse effects myself. I would be wary of anything but whey powders though. Many of the ingredients added to others shakes aren't particularly safe, or at least not if certain precautions aren't followed -- such as consuming adequate water with creatine.
I also doubt there are any traces of (anabolic) steroids in these mixtures, but whey alone will likley give you more than adequate results with proper nutrition.
If by chance you are in your teens and still growing, do be careful about excess protein intake. Though this is always a potential concern with adults as well, and can lead to kidney and liver dysfunction among other things.
Be well. Take care.

Thanks for the concern. By the way, I am in fact a teenager, and yes I will be sure to control and maintain my protein intake to a healthy level. I'm thinking about getting the Optimum 100% whey protein, which consists of things I know and can actually pronounce.
Thanks again u guys.