A new study has come to light, shedding light on a concerning aspect of the food industry. It reveals that foods marketed with protein claims often mislead consumers. Most of these products are found to be high in sodium, fat, and sweeteners, thereby posing hidden health risks.

Beware of the Protein Claim - Hidden Health Dangers Unveiled

Background and Popularity

Protein-fortified foods and protein and amino acid supplements are witnessing a surge in popularity worldwide. People generally perceive these as healthy choices. Recent surveys show a 26% compound annual growth rate in newly launched foods and beverages with protein claims in Europe from 2017 to 2022, and 12% in Australia. In 2022, approximately 17% of consumers specifically ask for high-protein foods, despite their higher prices. Studies indicate that foods with protein claims are regarded as having high nutritional value and being beneficial for building muscles, staying healthy, and increasing longevity. However, this perception might not always be accurate. 2: The widespread belief in the healthiness of protein-rich foods has led to a significant increase in their consumption. But as this study shows, there are hidden aspects that consumers need to be aware of.

Analysis of Different Food Types

The study analyzed 4325 processed foods of 12 different types. Around 13% of these had protein claims. The prevalence varied across food types. Plant-based meat analogs had the highest proportion of protein claims at 68.2%, followed by bars (35.3%) and yogurt or dairy dessert substitutes (21.3%). No protein claim was found in biscuits and fruit drinks. 2: This variation in protein claim prevalence across different food types highlights the need for consumers to be more discerning when choosing protein-rich foods. Not all protein-rich products are created equal.

Nutrient Composition Differences

In addition to protein content, significant differences were observed in carbohydrates, sugar, and total and saturated fat content between foods with and without protein claims. Bars with protein claims had lower carbohydrate content and 82% less sugar than those without but contained 48% more saturated fat. Milk and dairy drinks had lower total and saturated fat, while yogurts and fermented milk had lower carbohydrates and sugar. Milk substitutes with protein claims had lower sugar and carbohydrates but more total fat compared to those without. Plant-based meat analogs with protein claims had lower carbohydrate content. 2: These differences in nutrient composition emphasize the importance of looking beyond the protein claim and examining the overall nutritional profile of a food.

Nutritional Quality Evaluation

Using a nutrient profile model developed by the Pan American Health Organization and the World Health Organization, the study found that about 90.8% of foods with protein claims are classified as "less healthy," and more than 50% have high fat and sodium content. One out of four items had high free sugar and saturated fat content, and one out of five had sweeteners. Compared to foods without a protein claim, those with a claim presented 17% more "less healthy" items. The proportions of foods with high amounts of fat, sodium, or sweeteners were also higher among food items with protein claims, but the proportions of foods with high amounts of free sugar or saturated fat were lower. 2: This evaluation clearly shows that the nutritional quality of foods with protein claims is often subpar, contrary to the common perception.

Study Significance and Consumer Advice

The study reveals that about one in seven foods in the Spanish market carries protein claims, and approximately 60% of these have fortified proteins mainly from plant sources. The nutritional quality of these foods is significantly worse than those without such claims. This highlights the need for consumers to carefully evaluate nutrition labels and ingredient lists. Protein claims can create a misleading health halo, and regular consumption of such foods can lead to adverse health outcomes like obesity and cardiovascular diseases. 2: Consumers should be vigilant and not be swayed solely by the protein claim on packaging. They need to make truly healthy choices by thoroughly checking the nutrition declaration.