Archive · 11 Dec 2025
Study reveals Indians rely on low-quality protein sources
A new study found that almost half of the protein Indians eat at home comes from cereals like rice and wheat.
While Indians eat enough protein on average, the quality is not very good because cereals don't have the best nutrients.
The study also found that people aren't eating enough vegetables, fruits, and pulses, but they are eating too much oil, salt, and sugar.
Richer people eat more milk and fruits than poorer people.
The study suggests that India should change its food programs to include more diverse and nutritious foods.
Nearly half of India's at-home protein intake comes from cereals like rice and wheat.
Indians consume an average of 55.6 g of protein per day, but the quality is low due to reliance on cereals.
Under-consumption of vegetables, fruits, and pulses, and overuse of cooking oil, salt, and sugar were noted.
There is a significant disparity in diet between the richest and poorest deciles, with the latter consuming much less milk and fruits.
The study recommends reforming public food programs to include more diverse and nutritious foods.
- Who
- Indians
- What
- Rely on low-quality protein sources, primarily cereals
- When
- Study published on December 10, 2023
- Where
- India
- Why
- Due to over-reliance on cereals and nutritional imbalance
- Average protein intake
- 55.6 g per day at home
- Protein from cereals
- Nearly 50%
- Carbohydrates from cereals
- Nearly 75%
- Coarse grains consumption decline
- 40% drop in a decade
- Fat intake increase
- More than doubled in the last decade