Protein is essential for the human body as it helps build and repair tissues, supports muscle growth, and plays a key role in maintaining overall health. A deficiency in protein can lead to stunted growth, water retention, hair loss, weakened immune system, etc. Despite its importance, this vital macronutrient is often neglected in the Indian diet, with over 70 percent of the population facing protein deficiency.
To educate consumers about the importance of incorporating sufficient protein into their daily diet, with almonds being a natural and healthy source, the Almond Board of California
hosted a panel session on the topic “Supporting the Daily Protein Needs of Indian Families with a Handful of California Almonds” at Radisson Blu, Jaipur. The event featured celebrity chef and India’s 1 st MasterChef winner Pankaj Bhadouria, well-known celebrity Minki Agarwal and Nutrition & Wellness Consultant, Sheela Krishnaswamy.
The panel discussion began with the moderator, RJ Geetanjali, shedding light on the widespread lack of awareness among Indians regarding the importance of protein in their
diets and the crucial role this macronutrient plays in overall health. Nutritionist Sheela Krishnaswamy emphasized the essential need for protein in daily meals, explaining how it
supports functions such as muscle growth, immune health, and is involved in the structure,
function and maintenance of cells and tissues in the body. She also addressed common misconceptions that protein sources are limited to animal products like meat, paneer, or fish, highlighting almonds as a versatile plant-based source of protein that should be part of everyday meals.
Sheela further referenced recent guidelines from the Indian Council of Medical Research-
National Institute of Nutrition (ICMR-NIN), which caution against excessive use of protein
supplements due to potential risks like kidney damage from prolonged use. She pointed to the Dietary Guidelines for Indians by ICMR-NIN, which recommends including nuts like almonds in a balanced diet, not only as a healthy snack but also as a valuable source of
plant protein. Sheela emphasized that incorporating almonds into the daily diet supports overall health, making them a natural and healthier choice for meeting daily protein requirements.
Pankaj Bhadouria noted that California almonds are incredibly versatile ingredients in the kitchen, as they can be enjoyed in various forms—raw, roasted, or ground into flour—while offering some of the nutritional benefits for overall well-being. Furthermore, Minki Agarwal also highlighted the importance of incorporating natural protein sources into one’s diet, emphasizing that California almonds are her go-to option for a quick energy boost. She noted that almonds not only promote a feeling of fullness but also support heart health with their nutrients.
Following the panel discussion, the audience was treated to Pankaj Bhadouria’s live cooking
demonstration, which highlighted innovative and easy ways to incorporate California
almonds into meals.
MasterChef Pankaj Bhadouria said, “I’ve always believed in creating dishes that not only delight the taste buds but also nourish the body. Protein often gets overlooked in Indian diets, which tend to be quite heavy on carbohydrates. The good thing is that anyone, regardless of their dietary preferences, can easily find sources to meet their protein needs. One fantastic option is California almonds. They’re a great source of natural protein and can be incorporated in so many creative ways, such as adding them to smoothies, using them as a topping for salads, or blending them into sauces. Not only do they add a delicious crunch, but their nutrient-dense profile makes them a perfect addition to any dish, enhancing both flavor and health benefits!”
Sheela Krishnaswamy, Nutrition & Wellness Consultant, said, “Protein deficiency is one of the most prevalent dietary problems in India. Another common misunderstanding is that plant-based diets don’t provide adequate protein. When incorporated into nutritionally-
balanced meals, plant sources like almonds help to meet the requirement of protein.
Almonds are a rich source of protein and contain 15 essential nutrients, including vitamin E, magnesium, and zinc. These wholesome nuts help control blood sugar levels and promote heart health, weight loss, muscle recovery, and energy levels. One easy and efficient method to enhance nutrition is to incorporate almonds into your daily diet.”
Popular Actress Minki Agarwal emphasized, “As an actor, balancing multiple shoots and rehearsals can be exhausting, so staying energized is crucial. For me, California almonds help to stay focused and support my energy requirement when consumed with a balanced diet. Growing up, my mother always gave me a handful of California almonds, and that habit has stuck with me. Now, they’re my go-to snack, not just because they’re nutritious, but also because they help curb unhealthy cravings. Whether I’m on set or traveling, almonds are always by my side, offering a convenient and tasty way to keep my nutrition up.”
The panel discussion concluded by emphasizing the critical importance of incorporating
protein sources into the daily diet for optimal health. The panelists highlighted California
almonds as a natural and excellent protein-rich option that can be effortlessly integrated into meals, contributing to daily protein requirements effortlessly.