Increase in Protein Consumption in India Modestly Observed in Fiscal Year 24

Increase in Protein Consumption in India Modestly Observed in Fiscal Year 24

In a recent study by the National Sample Survey Office (NSSO), it has been revealed that the average protein intake per person per day in both urban and rural India has shown minor fluctuations over the past year. Specifically, the average protein intake per person per day in urban India was 63.4 grams in FY24, an increase from 63.2 grams in FY23, while in rural India, it was 61.8 grams in FY24, a decrease from 61.9 grams in FY23.

However, it is important to note that India's protein intake still meets the minimum dietary requirements for sedentary adults but falls short of the optimal intake needed for a healthier and more active population. The NSSO study underscores the significance of adequate protein intake in maintaining a balanced diet.

The decline in the share of cereals in protein intake indicates a positive shift toward dietary diversification in India. Cereals accounted for around 46% of protein intake in rural India and 39% in urban India in FY24, a decrease from 60% and 51% respectively in FY10. The share of protein derived from eggs, fish, meat, milk products, and other food items has increased in both rural and urban India.

The disparities in protein intake across Indian states arise from a combination of economic, dietary, cultural, and regional factors. Economic conditions and wage levels play a significant role, with low wage earnings and prevalent unemployment in many states contributing to inadequate nutritional intake, including protein. This economic constraint limits dietary diversity and protein-rich food consumption in poorer states.

Rural areas generally show marginally lower or declining protein consumption compared to urban areas. Urban centers tend to have stable or slightly higher protein intake, reflecting better access and affordability. Dietary patterns and food culture also play a crucial role, with cereals remaining the largest source of protein but their share having declined over the past decade. Cultural food preferences and availability affect these shifts, influencing protein intake levels across regions.

Regional disparities in calorie and protein intake are evident, with some states consistently showing intake below nutritional norms. For example, Assam, Jharkhand, Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra, and Uttar Pradesh in rural areas, and several states in urban areas as well, exhibit lower intake levels. These disparities are linked to economic development, food security programs’ effectiveness, and local agricultural practices.

Despite schemes like PM Garib Kalyan Yojana and PM Poshan aiming to improve food security, many states still experience malnutrition and inadequate protein intake due to systemic socio-economic challenges. Kerala leads in protein intake in urban areas, followed by Bihar and Punjab, while states like Uttar Pradesh and Maharashtra remain at the lower end. State-wise NSSO data shows significant disparities in protein intake, with Kerala reporting the highest rural intake and Gujarat the lowest.

Madhura Paroolkar Behki, Nutritionist Expert at Cult, notes that while India's protein intake has improved, it remains suboptimal, especially when considering protein quality, body weight requirements, and diverse population needs. Examples of protein-rich foods include animal products like meat, fish, and egg, and plant foods like pulses, oilseeds, and nuts.

In the June quarter, the FMCG industry recorded a 7.32% value growth, indicating a potential positive impact on the availability and affordability of protein-rich foods. However, addressing the root causes of malnutrition and ensuring equitable access to nutritious food remains a pressing challenge for policymakers and stakeholders.

This article was published on July 7, 2025.

1. The study by the National Sample Survey Office (NSSO) revealed that India's protein intake is still meeting the minimum dietary requirements but falls short of the optimal intake needed for a healthier and more active population.
2. The decline in the share of cereals in protein intake indicates a positive shift toward dietary diversification in India, with the share of protein derived from eggs, fish, meat, milk products, and other food items increasing in both rural and urban India.
3. The NSSO study underscores the significance of adequate protein intake in maintaining a balanced diet, with cultural food preferences and availability affecting these shifts, influencing protein intake levels across regions.
4. The FMCG industry recorded a 7.32% value growth in the June quarter, indicating a potential positive impact on the availability and affordability of protein-rich foods.
5. Despite schemes like PM Garib Kalyan Yojana and PM Poshan aiming to improve food security, regional disparities in calorie and protein intake remain evident, with some states consistently showing intake below nutritional norms, such as Assam, Jharkhand, Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra, and Uttar Pradesh in rural areas and several states in urban areas.

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