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New Delhi: Nearly 60 per cent of urban Indians are not consuming protein-rich foods on a daily basis, highlighting a significant nutrition gap despite growing health awareness, according to a nationwide survey conducted by LocalCircles in collaboration with Country Delight.
The survey, which gathered over 2.07 lakh responses from consumers across 25 major metros and urban districts, found that only 4 in 10 urban Indians regularly include protein-rich foods such as lentils, eggs, milk, paneer, fish or nuts in their daily meals.
It also revealed a widespread lack of awareness around protein requirements. Nearly 74 per cent of respondents were unable to correctly identify the recommended daily protein intake for an average adult, as prescribed by the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR), which suggests 0.66 to 0.83 grams of protein per kilogram of body weight for healthy adults.
Around 85 per cent of respondents said they do not track or estimate their daily protein intake, indicating that many consumers may be unknowingly missing key nutrients even while following what they perceive to be a balanced diet.
The study further found that about half of urban Indians are unaware of the role protein plays in muscle strength, immunity and energy levels, and do not associate common symptoms such as fatigue, hair fall or low immunity with inadequate protein intake.
Affordability emerged as the biggest barrier to adequate protein consumption, followed by taste preferences and dietary restrictions, particularly among vegetarians. However, availability was not cited as a major concern, with most respondents indicating that protein-rich foods are accessible in local markets.
The survey showed that 71 per cent of consumers are willing to switch to more affordable protein alternatives if available. Of the total respondents, 61 per cent were men and 39 per cent women.
Commenting on the findings, physician Dr Vishakha Shivdasani said protein deficiency can contribute to muscle loss, weak immunity, metabolic dysfunction and declining cognitive health across age groups. “Protein is a foundational requirement for daily health, disease prevention and healthy ageing,” she said.
Country Delight CEO and co-founder Chakradhar Gade said the survey underscores the need to address affordability, awareness and convenience to improve protein intake. He added that the company is expanding its portfolio of high-protein everyday food products to help bridge the gap.>
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