- Consuming protein-rich foods has significantly increase during the Covid-19 pandemic
- The recommended dietary allowance of protein for an average Indian adult is 0.8 to 1 gm per kg body weight
- Including chicken and eggs in your daily diet provides high-quality protein, vitamins and minerals
Poultry, which includes broiler and eggs, rich in protein and minerals, such as iron, selenium, zinc, and B vitamins-- is one of the fastest growing segments of the overall agricultural sector in the country. Plant based sources of proteins primarily comprise pulses and vegetables.
The pandemic has had an impact on food habits while increasing awareness levels, analysts said.
While researches have shown that intake of protein is typically linked with higher income levels, the consumption and demand for the important nutrient has gone up with the outbreak of the pandemic, despite income losses.
An Observer Research Foundation study published in October last year noted that protein considered the 'building blocks' of health is not only lacking in the Indian diet, but often overlooked.
"While crop production has witnessed around 1.5 to 2 per cent annual growth rate in the last decade, eggs and broilers segments have been rising at a rate of 7-10 percent annually," Ricky Thapar, treasurer, Poultry Federation of India, told India Narrative.
Chicken is also considered healthier compared to other meats. While fish is also rich in protein and omega 3 besides other nutrients, it is relatively more expensive.
Earlier, in 2017 the Indian Market Research Bureau, in one of its surveys said that 73 percent of Indians are deficient in protein while above 90 percent are unaware of the daily requirement of protein.
Source-IANS