Chakradhar Gade, CEO and Co-founder at Country Delight, and Dr Vishakha Shivdasani, physician specialising in lifestyle related conditions, said findings from the LocalCircles survey show six in ten urban Indians do not consume protein rich foods daily.
National, February 5, 2026: A large-scale nationwide consumer study has pointed to persistent gaps in daily protein consumption among urban Indians, despite growing awareness around health and nutrition. The study was commissioned by Country Delight in collaboration with LocalCircles and gathered more than 2,07,000 responses across 25 metropolitan and urban districts.The findings indicate that six out of ten urban respondents do not consume protein rich foods every day. Only four in ten reported including sources such as lentils, eggs, milk, paneer, fish, or nuts consistently in their daily meals. The data suggests that while health consciousness has increased, protein intake remains irregular in everyday diets.
The study also highlights a significant awareness gap. Nearly 74 percent of respondents were unable to correctly identify the recommended daily protein requirement for an average adult, while 85 percent said they do not track or estimate their protein intake at all. Over half of those surveyed were unaware that protein deficiency can contribute to fatigue, muscle loss, weak immunity, and reduced energy levels.
Affordability emerged as the primary barrier to regular protein consumption, followed by taste preferences and dietary restrictions. While most respondents indicated that protein rich foods are readily available in local markets, cost considerations and food choices were cited as limiting factors. Notably, 71 percent of respondents said they would be willing to switch to more affordable protein alternatives if such options were accessible.
Commenting on the health implications, Vishakha Shivdasani said protein deficiency is often underestimated in India and affects muscle health, immunity, metabolic balance, and long-term wellbeing across age groups. She said protein should be viewed as a foundational nutrient rather than a fitness trend.
Speaking on the survey insights, Chakradhar Gade said the findings reinforce the need to address affordability, awareness, and convenience together. He said Country Delight is expanding its range of high-protein everyday essentials to help consumers meet their nutritional needs through familiar foods rather than supplements.
In line with the study’s findings, Country Delight has introduced High Protein Cow’s Milk, which delivers 30 grams of protein per 450 ml serving and meets 50 percent of the recommended daily allowance. The product uses natural filtration technology without added protein powders, stabilisers, or artificial ingredients. The company has also partnered with HRX to launch Mission Protein, a nationwide initiative aimed at improving protein awareness and access.
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