Archive · 5 Aug 2026
1 in 2 Indians Eat Protein Daily, Confusion Persists: Report
A new report tells us how people in India think about protein.
Protein is a part of food that helps our bodies build strong muscles and stay healthy.
The report found that nearly one in two people in India eat protein every day.
But many people are still confused about protein.
In fact, 93 out of 100 people who keep track of their protein still feel unsure about protein information.
The report asked 2,000 people across India about how they eat and choose food.
Many people think natural foods are a better source of protein than supplements.
Only a few people, about 19 percent, ask doctors or nutritionists for advice about protein.
Most people think protein is affordable, and many check nutrition labels before buying food.
The report says people's confidence about protein often doesn't match what they actually do.
Nearly one in two Indian consumers now include protein in every meal, according to the 'India's Protein Paradox' report released on Tuesday.
93 per cent of consumers who actively track their protein intake still feel uncertain about protein-related information.
The report by PulseAI Research surveyed 2,000 consumers across India on protein consumption habits and dietary preferences.
Only 19 per cent of respondents rely on doctors or nutritionists for protein guidance, while 41 per cent actively track or estimate their protein intake.
More than 71 per cent find protein affordable or only slightly expensive, and 31.4 per cent of non-vegetarians use plant-based protein sources.
- Who
- PulseAI Research, the consumer intelligence and insights division powered by Smytten, which surveyed 2,000 consumers across India; Shishir Varma, CEO of PulseAI Research, commented on the findings.
- What
- Nearly one in two Indian consumers include protein in every meal, yet 93 per cent of those who track protein intake feel uncertain about protein-related information, per the 'India's Protein Paradox' report.
- When
- The report was released on Tuesday.
- Where
- Across India.
- Why
- To understand evolving protein consumption habits, dietary preferences and nutrition decision-making among Indian consumers.
Natural and Traditional Approach
Modern and Supplement Approach
Best Source of Protein
Natural and Traditional Approach
Half of respondents believe natural foods are a better source of protein than supplements, and traditional dietary beliefs continue to shape protein choices.
Modern and Supplement Approach
Supplement adoption is growing despite traditional beliefs, and many consumers actively track or estimate their protein intake as part of their routines.
Guidance for Nutrition Decisions
Natural and Traditional Approach
Only 19 per cent rely on doctors or nutritionists; most consumers prefer independently navigating their nutrition decisions through self-research and personal experience.
Modern and Supplement Approach
A segment of consumers seeks expert-backed guidance, clearer product information, educational content and personalised nutrition plans.
- Report Title
- India's Protein Paradox
- Publisher
- PulseAI Research (consumer intelligence and insights division powered by Smytten)
- Survey Sample Size
- 2,000 consumers across India
- Consumers Eating Protein in Every Meal
- Nearly one in two (about 50%)
- Protein Trackers Uncertain About Information
- 93%
- Consumers Actively Tracking Protein Intake
- 41%
- Consumers Relying on Doctors or Nutritionists
- 19%
- Respondents Perceiving Protein as Affordable or Slightly Expensive
- More than 71%