National Protein Day is observed annually on 27 February across India to raise awareness about the vital role, protein plays in maintaining a healthy diet. The day highlights the importance of protein for overall growth and development, while also promoting the wide variety of protein-rich options available to meet dietary needs.
- February 27 2025, marks the 6th observance of National Protein Day.
Significance:
i.National Protein Day highlights the importance of protein in our daily diet and encourages individuals to make informed decisions regarding their protein intake.
ii.The day serves to address the protein deficit in India, where the average protein consumption is significantly lower than the recommended daily intake.
Background:
i.National Protein Day, celebrated on February 27, began in India in 2020 with the launch of the “Right to Protein” (RTP), a national-level public health initiative to raise awareness about the importance of adequate protein consumption.
ii.The first-ever National Protein Day was observed on February 27 2020.
Right To Protein Campaign:
i.The ‘Right To Protein’ (RTP) campaign is a global initiative led by the United States Soybean Export Council (USSEC) to raise awareness about the importance of adequate protein consumption for better nutrition, health, and well-being.
ii.Educational Outreach: The campaign aims to build knowledge among individuals about various protein sources, with a particular emphasis on plant-based proteins, to meet broader nutritional goals.
iii.Health Promotion: RTP emphasizes the role of protein in supporting good health, reducing malnutrition, and promoting sustainable development.
iv.Addressing Protein Deficiency: The campaign creates awareness about the global burden of protein deficiency, especially in developing nations, addressing it as a significant public health concern.
What is Protein?
i.Protein is a fundamental macronutrient essential for the body’s healthy functioning, composed of chemical ‘building blocks’ called amino acids.
ii.There are about 20 different amino acids, with 11 produced by the human body. The other 9 “essential amino acids” must be acquired through daily protein intake.
iii.The human body uses amino acids to make new proteins, such as muscle and bone, and other compounds like enzymes and hormones.
iv.Proteins play a crucial role in maintaining a healthy immune system, transporting nutrients and oxygen throughout the body, and regulating various metabolic pathways.
Point to Note:
i.According to the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR), the average protein consumption in India is estimated to be just 48 grams (g) per day, whereas the Recommended Dietary Allowance (RDA) for protein is 0.8–1g per kilogram (kg) of body weight.
ii.In India, more than 80% of Indians don’t get enough of this important nutrient.
