From morning coffees to lunchtime treats, protein has officially taken over supermarket shelves across the nation as the latest must-have ingredient. This nutrient is vital for repairing body tissue and keeping hunger pangs at bay for longer periods during the day.
Protein Intake on the Rise
A recent study by Ocado Retail found that roughly 50% of people have increased their intake recently. However, the British Nutrition Foundation notes: "In the UK, on average, we are eating more than enough protein, so we don't need extra from supplements or products with added protein." Some evidence suggests our bodies require more support as we grow older or if we exercise regularly. Star Fit editor James Moore explains the science behind this growing fascination and reviews the latest options available at your local shops and restaurants.
What is Protein?
Protein is a vital macronutrient that breaks down into amino acids to support everything from your skin and hair to muscles and bones. It also supports hormone production, boosts your immune system, and provides a welcome energy lift.
Where Can I Find It?
Excellent natural sources include lean meats like chicken, as well as fish, eggs, cheese, peas, and beans. Experts suggest eating your protein first at mealtime and spacing it out throughout the day.
How Much Should I Eat?
An average adult requires roughly 0.75g per kg of body weight daily. That equates to about 45g each day for a 60kg woman, or 55g for a 75kg man.
What Are the Other Benefits?
Higher intake has been linked to a lower risk of conditions like type 2 diabetes. However, eating too much can put extra pressure on your kidneys and increase the risk of osteoporosis.
Is It Linked to Weight Loss?
Protein keeps you full and has fewer calories than fat, making it popular for weight management. Just ensure you check the labels, as some packaged options can also feature high amounts of sugar.
Popular Protein Products
- Myprotein Impact Whey Isolate: This easy-mix powder provides a straightforward way to support your daily tissue-building targets with a low-fat formula. Price: £24.49 (500g)
- Bulk Pure Whey Protein: Perfect for drinking after a workout, this powder provides essential body-repair blocks in a highly rated, smooth formula. Price: £24.99 (1kg)
- Grenade High Protein Bars: This convenient chocolate snack delivers a major nutritional boost on the go without overloading your body with sugar. Price: £20 (12 x 60g bars)
- Wyldsson Boho Unflavoured Organic Vegan Protein Powder: This natural powder combines five plant sources, including pea and pumpkin seed, to deliver a pure tissue-building boost completely free from artificial sweeteners and additives. Price: £27.99 (1kg)
- Green Chef: These protein-packed meals are delivered straight to your door. Each box comes hand-packed with delicious ingredients and recipe cards. Price: From £3.59 per meal
Prices correct at time of publication.
What's Available in Stores?
Wall's has introduced a High Protein Sausage Roll with 16g of protein and 303 calories, which takes an hour's walk to burn off. By comparison, a standard Greggs alternative offers just 9.2g of protein but contains 348 calories.
On-the-go snacks now include a Snickers bar boasting 23g of protein and significantly less sugar. For savoury fans, Hippeas crisps offer 8g of pea protein, while Aldi has launched handy Protein Balls.
Greggs has also entered the market by launching Arla dairy shakes in fruit or chocolate flavours. These supermarket drinks are each packed with a generous 26g of protein.
Starbucks has introduced a novel Protein Cold Foam topping for hot drinks, which delivers 15g of whey protein. Their Iced Caramel Protein Latte contains 206 calories, requiring a 30-minute bike ride to clear.
Pret has launched new protein lunch plates for health-conscious shoppers on the move. The chicken option provides 34g of protein, while the salmon and egg alternative delivers 31g.
Morrisons now stocks the Applied Nutrition range, which features a BBQ Chicken Pizza containing 34g of protein. Meanwhile, Sainsbury's has a new six-meal range under 500 calories, including a Beef Bolognese Tagliatelle.
