Right to Protein Movement | UPSC | Why in The News ?
How retail industry is adopting soy as a protein-rich feed for livestock; experts discuss ( Source : Economic Times )
Right to Protein Movement | UPSC : About Protein And Soy
Protein :
- The word protein is derived from Greek word, “proteios” which means primary or of prime importance.
- Protein is known as the building block of life.
- This is not only true in the case of humans but also animals.
- Proteins are the most abundant biomolecules of the living system.
- Chief sources of proteins are milk, cheese, pulses, peanuts, fish, meat, etc.
- They occur in every part of the body and form the fundamental basis of structure and functions of life.
- They are also required for growth and maintenance of body.
- Proteins are polypeptides.
- Proteins are linear chains of amino acids linked by peptide bonds.
- Each protein is a polymer of amino acids.
Soyabean :
- Soy, one of the richest sources of protein, is emerging as a high-quality feed ingredient for poultry, livestock, and aquaculture amongst retailers.
- Soybean meals can be a good substitute for meat and are also economically beneficial.
- Soybean meal is also at times referred to as ‘gold standard’ owing to its protein content.
- It is composed of amino acids which are highly digestible and make a good diet for the cattle.
- Soy is a versatile and multifunctional source of protein.
- Not only does it meet dietary needs but also produces energy and increases the metabolism rate.
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Significance of the panel discussion
- It aims to increase awareness about soybean meals and how they can be a quality protein product differentiator so that consumers having access to superior quality protein products can make healthier consumption choices.
- Protein consumption has taken centre-stage ever since the pandemic began in 2020.
- Consumers are moving towards healthy food consumption and are becoming more nutritionally aware – this is achieved by reading nutrition information charts on food packaging – which is becoming a big differentiator in the retail industry.
- Information on feed consumed by livestock can help consumers differentiate between regular and superior quality products.
About Right To Protein Movement :
- The Right To Protein initiative aims to create a vibrant ecosystem of like-minded citizens that will not only sensitize each other about the importance of protein in an Indian diet, but will also further the country’s public health agenda in-line with Government of India’s campaigns such as Poshan Abhiyaan and Fit India Movement.
- The larger goal is to champion the cause of protein sufficiency and help India be more protein aware for better nutrition and improved public health.
- Right To Protein, a national-level public health initiative, has launched India’s first ‘Protein Day’ to raise awareness about the health benefits of protein.
International Protein Day :
- 27th February as the Protein Day
