Vineet Singhal, Managing Director and CEO, RelSus talks about addressing protein deficiency in India and rise of alternative proteins
Proteins are the cornerstone of life, serving as essential building blocks for muscles, bones, cartilage, skin, and blood. They are integral to almost every physiological function in the body, playing a crucial role in growth, maintenance, and repair. However, despite their critical role, protein deficiency remains a pressing concern globally, with particular emphasis on India. Moreover, the environmental impact of traditional animal-based protein sources has prompted a shift towards sustainable alternatives, such as plant-based proteins.
The importance of proteins
Derived from the Greek word “proteios,” meaning primary or of prime importance, proteins are indeed fundamental to our existence. They not only provide structure to cells but also facilitate biochemical reactions, transport molecules, and regulate gene expression. Additionally, proteins can serve as an energy source when carbohydrates or fats are unavailable.
Meeting the Recommended Daily Allowance (RDA) of protein is vital for overall health and wellbeing. While the RDA varies depending on factors like gender and activity level, a general guideline suggests consuming 0.36 grams of protein per pound of body weight failing which symptoms of protein deficiency may appear that include muscle wasting, edema, anaemia, and slow growth.
Further, the recommended daily intake of protein varies, with guidelines suggesting around 46 grams per day for women and 56 grams per day for men. However, individual protein requirements may vary based on factors such as age, gender, weight, and activity level. Thus, with the global population projected to soar, meeting the escalating demand for protein-rich foods becomes imperative to sustain human health and well-being.
Global protein demand and trends
The global demand for protein is escalating, driven by population growth and increasing health consciousness. According to FAO/UN forecasts, by 2050, the world will require twice the amount of food, particularly protein, compared to 2013 levels. High-protein diets and products are gaining popularity, with consumers recognizing the benefits of protein in supporting an active lifestyle and reducing the risk of diseases like diabetes and cardiovascular ailments.
However, despite the growing awareness, there are significant challenges, especially in regions like India, where protein deficiency is prevalent. Indian diets derive almost 60 per cent of their protein from cereals, which often lack adequate protein, leading to widespread deficiencies. Surveys indicate that a significant portion of the population falls short of the recommended protein intake, with over 73 per cent of Indians being deficient in protein. Therefore, while global protein consumption is increasing, with an average of 68 grams per person per day, India lags behind with the lowest average protein intake of 47 grams per person per day compared to other Asian countries and developed nations.
Addressing protein deficiency in India
India faces a dual burden of malnutrition, with a substantial portion of the population experiencing undernutrition alongside rising rates of obesity and overweight. Government initiatives like the Public Distribution System (PDS) aim to provide subsidised food grains, but protein-rich foods are often overlooked. The protein supplementation through PDS averages to 7.2 gm/day and 3.8 gm/day in rural and urban areas respectively, leading to recommended dietary allowance for protein remaining unmet for poorest households with low access to food. Despite programs like the Integrated Child Development Services (ICDS) and the Mid Day Meal Scheme (MDM), protein deficiency persists.
Therefore, while NITI Aayog has been pushing for protein-rich foods—both plant and animal protein—to be included in the public distribution system; there’s an urgent need for awareness campaigns to educate the population about the importance of protein and encourage the consumption of protein-rich foods.
The rise of alternative proteins
As concerns about global environmental sustainability grow parallelly, there is a burgeoning interest in alternative protein sources, notably plant-based proteins. The global plant-based proteins market is estimated to be at $52 billion as of 2023 and projected to reach $161 billion by 2030, driven by a shift towards healthier and more sustainable dietary choices.
In the current landscape, plant-based protein companies are garnering unprecedented attention, with a wave of new enterprises experiencing an unparalleled surge. Consumers are increasingly drawn towards “alt-protein” foods for a multitude of reasons, spanning from health and ethical considerations to flavour preferences. Search and purchase data indicate a trajectory of continued growth, propelling alt-proteins further into the mainstream. The surge in demand for plant-based foods, coupled with the conscientiousness of consumers, has spurred remarkable innovations within the sector on a global scale. The evolution towards a vegan diet and lifestyle is unmistakable, with projections suggesting that within the next decade, 20 per cent of global meat, eggs, and dairy consumption will be plant-based. This is merely the beginning. The opportunity presented to the Indian plant-based movement is even vast, with the timing more opportune than ever. India’s status as one of the fastest-growing economies, coupled with its cultural reverence for non-violence and harmony, positions it as fertile ground for a thriving plant-based economy. The burgeoning middle class is increasingly inclined towards making healthier, environmentally friendly choices, thereby driving the demand for sustainable and cruelty-free food options.
Companies like RELSUS stand at the forefront of this movement, producing in India some of the world’s finest plant-based proteins from locally grown sources like chickpeas, mung beans, peas, and rapeseed crops. This offers an excellent opportunity for Indian food and beverage industry to localise the supply chains while participating in the Protein Transition movement. These alternatives not only alleviate environmental strain but also align with evolving consumer preferences for ethical and sustainable food choices. Plant-based proteins offer an array of benefits, including reduced environmental impact, mitigated risk of chronic diseases, and enhanced animal welfare. Additionally, advancements in food technology have facilitated the creation of plant-based meat substitutes that closely emulate the taste and texture of conventional animal-based products, further catalysing consumer acceptance and adoption.
Conclusion
From combating deficiency to embracing sustainable alternatives, addressing protein-related challenges requires concerted efforts from policymakers, healthcare professionals, and the food industry. By fostering awareness, promoting access to nutritious foods, and embracing innovation in protein production, we can pave the way towards a healthier and more sustainable future for all. Let us reaffirm our commitment to harnessing the power of proteins to nourish our bodies, protect our planet, and build a better world for generations to come. We must embrace the 3Ps: Plant, Proteins for People, and Planet.
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