The Protein Paradox

BENGALURU : The pandemic and post-pandemic world have accelerated the growth of the health-conscious and wellness market. “I believe that we now live in an age where supplementation has become a pantry essential; it’s no longer a luxury because all health-conscious consumers are using protein for convenience, to improve their health, etc,” says Gauravi Vinay, a clinical nutritionist in the city and a regular user of protein powders. However, a recent study conducted by researchers from Rajagiri Hospital and a US-based technology entrepreneur, examining 36 different brands of protein powders in India found that nearly 70 per cent had inaccurately labelled protein contents, while around 14 per cent contained harmful fungal aflatoxins. “Choose protein powders that are third-party tested for heavy metals, which are more prevalent in plant proteins, as heavy metals naturally occur in crops – arsenic in rice, and lead, mercury, and cadmium in soil,” she explains. Monali Gorai, a weight-loss coach, believes protein powders are unnecessary for most people, promoting natural protein sources as the foundation of a healthy diet.