National Protein Day in India Date in the current year: February 27, 2024

Proteins are one of the three essential macronutrients that provide the body with energy, alongside carbohydrates and fats. They consists of amino acids joined by peptide bonds. Since the body cannot synthesize some amino acids from scratch, we need protein in our diet to stay healthy and fit. The human body also needs protein to grow because it is an important structural component in all organs and tissues, especially muscles, skin, and hair.

The dietary sources of protein are very varied. They include meat, fish and seafood, dairy, eggs, cereals (including pseudocereals), legumes, nuts, seeds, and some fruits. In parts of Africa, insects are an important source of dietary protein. In developed countries, animal sources of protein tend to prevail in the diet, but on a global scale, over 60% of dietary protein derives from plant sources.

Despite the seeming abundance of protein sources, protein-energy malnutrition (PEM) is fairly common worldwide and accounts for over 200,000 of deaths annually. PEM occurs in both children and adults, but it affects children more. Although it is more common in low-income countries, children from developed countries may also be affected. Risk groups include children from poor neighborhoods, children suffering from chronic diseases, and children in hospitals.

National Protein Day has been observed in India every February 27 since 2020. It was launched by Right to Protein, an awareness initiative dedicated to educating people about the importance of adequate protein consumption for their health and well-being and raising awareness of different protein sources, especially plant-based protein. Its six core values are the right to protein education, examination, affordability, accessibility, intake, and fitness.

According to statistics, nearly 80% of Indians don’t get enough protein, which can lead to malnutrition and serious health problems. A number of academicians, nutrition specialists, and institutions got together and launched Right to Protein and National Protein Day to educate people about the importance of protein and increase protein intake, especially among children, young people and mothers.

Like many awareness campaigns, National Protein Day usually has a theme that changes every year to highlight one of its many aspects. Past themes have included “Protein mein kya hai?” (“What’s in protein?”), “Plant-based Sources of Protein”, “Food Futurism”, and “Easy Access to Protein for All”.

You can celebrate National Protein Day even if you’re not in India because everyone needs protein to stay healthy! On February 27, learn more about the many different sources of protein, treat yourself to a delicious protein-rich meal, and spread the word about the holiday on social media using the hashtags #NationalProteinDay, #IndiaProteinDay, #ProteinDay and #RightToProtein.