Taking a closer look at the protein hype: is it really necessary?

Protein water, high-protein puddings and fortified dairy – the range of protein-packed products on supermarket shelves is expanding rapidly. But anyone who thinks all those extra grams are truly needed may want to think again. According to the Vegetariërsbond, the average Dutch consumer already gets more than enough protein through a regular diet.

More isn’t always better

Protein is essential, no doubt about that. Still, most people in the Netherlands already consume sufficient amounts through their daily meals. Only those who train intensively, older adults or people with specific medical conditions benefit from increased protein intake. “For the rest of the population, more protein offers no added value. In fact – excess protein is converted into energy or stored as fat.”

Profit margins masked as health benefits

Manufacturers are eager to capitalise on protein’s healthy image. Products labelled as ‘high in protein’ are often significantly more expensive than their regular counterparts. And yet, adding protein costs very little. “That price hike isn’t going towards your health – it’s going straight into the producer’s profit margin,” says the Vegetariërsbond.

Plant-based options fall by the wayside

According to the Vegetariërsbond, many people associate the word ‘protein’ automatically with animal-based products: chicken, quark, eggs, yoghurt. That’s unfortunate – because there are countless plant-based sources readily available, such as lentils, beans, tofu, whole grains, nuts and seeds. The focus on ‘more protein’ and ‘powerful nutrition’ unintentionally shifts the conversation back to animal-based foods – when what we really need is a shift towards more plant-based eating.

Vegetariers.nl