Dietary Debate: Is the Demand for Chicken Breast Smoothies Excessive Among Thais, Given Adequate Protein Consumption?
In recent years, Thai people have been increasing their spending on meat and eggs steadily, according to an analysis by Mahidol University. This trend is particularly noticeable in urban and economically developed regions such as Bangkok and the central region, where the consumption of animal-based protein is higher compared to rural areas.
However, it's important to note that Thai people, on average, consume enough protein, as confirmed by the Institute of Nutrition Mahidol's analysis. This consumption typically exceeds the recommendations of the EAT-Lancet Planetary Health Diet, which promotes lower intake of red meat and animal products to improve health and environmental sustainability.
The shift to more animal-sourced foods has displaced the consumption of fruits, vegetables, legumes, and whole grains, a trend that is concerning for several reasons. Our bodies need more than protein to sustain themselves, with essential nutrients like fiber and micronutrients coming from these plant-based sources.
The World Health Organization recommends an average person consumes 0.8 grams of protein per 1kg of body weight. While animal-based protein accounts for approximately 70% of total protein intake in Thailand, plant-based protein contributes only 30%.
One example of this trend can be seen in health food stores in Bangkok, where chicken breast smoothies from three different brands are sold. This consumption pattern is linked to a deep-seated fear of protein deficiency.
To encourage Thais to adopt more balanced diets, the Thai government should consider adjusting the national food-based dietary guidelines. This could involve increasing both the intake and the diversity of fruits, vegetables, legumes, and whole grains.
Food retailers can play a role by improving the accessibility and visibility of healthy and sustainable protein from plants. Restaurant chains can do their part by offering plant-rich options, adjusting the proportions between plant and animal on the plate, and offering them at a reasonable price range.
Food producers can increase their R&D in the effort to make plant-based alternative protein more affordable, appealing, and accessible to Thai consumers. The Eat-Lancet Commission, a group of 30 leading scientists, has produced the Planetary Health Diet, which suggests a meal should be rich in plants, with more protein coming from legumes, and animal-based protein being a modest part of the plate.
It's worth noting that overconsumption of meat, particularly processed and red meat, is linked to more non-communicable diseases. Meanwhile, severe flooding in the north of Thailand is a timely reminder of the consequences of our changing climate, which is exacerbated by meat and seafood production.
Wichayapat Piromsan, the Thailand director for Madre Brava, emphasizes the need for a shift towards more sustainable and healthier eating habits. As Thai people's consumption patterns are still relatively close to the EAT Lancet's Planetary Health Diet, there is still time to make a change for the better.
