Escalate protein plates from legumes for sustainable human nutrition

Abstract

Protein is one of the most important, foremost, and versatile nutrients in food. The quantity and quality of protein are determinants of its nutritional values. Therefore, adequate consumption of high-quality protein is essential for optimal growth, development, and health of humans. Based on short-term nitrogen balance studies, the Recommended Dietary Allowance of protein for the healthy adult with minimal physical activity is 0.8 g protein/kg body weight (BW) per day. Proteins are present in good quantities in not only animals but also in plants, especially in legumes. With the growing demand for protein, interest in plant proteins is also rising due to their comparative low cost as well as the increase in consumers’ demand originating from health and environmental concerns. Legumes are nutrient-dense foods, comprising components identified as “antinutritional factors” that can reduce the bioavailability of macro and micronutrients. Other than nutritive value, the physiochemical and behavioral properties of proteins during processing plays a significant role in determining the end quality of food. The term “complete protein” refers to when all nine essential amino acids are present in the correct proportion in our bodies. To have a balanced diet, the right percentage of protein is required for our body. The consumption of these high protein-containing foods will lead to protein sustainability and eradicate malnutrition. Here, we shed light on major opportunities to strengthen the contribution of diversity in legume crops products to sustainable diets. This review will boost awareness and knowledge on underutilized proteinous foods into national nutritional security programs.

Comparative In Vitro Digestion and Intestinal Absorption Simulation of Chicken Protein, Wheat Gluten, and Their Hydrolyzed Analogues for Canine and Feline Nutritional Supplement

“…4 Importantly, certain plant proteins might harbor antinutritional factors, potentially impeding their digestion and absorption in both cats and dogs. 5 Chicken protein (CP), as a high-quality animal-derived protein, provides a comprehensive amino acid profile for pets, especially for carnivorous animals like cats. In many pet foods, CP is often used as the primary protein source to meet the stringent nutritional requirements of pets.…”

“…For instance, a shift in dietary protein from animal to plant sources might elevate digestibility rates in cats, while leaving it relatively unchanged in dogs. , Moreover, the digestibility and absorption can vary based on the protein source, be it eggs, poultry byproducts, or plant proteins . Importantly, certain plant proteins might harbor antinutritional factors, potentially impeding their digestion and absorption in both cats and dogs …”

LDRGDb - Legumes disease resistance genes database

“…Legumes are diverse; they are suitable for cultivation in a variety of environments and temperatures ( Magrini et al., 2019 ). They are an excellent source of antioxidants, micronutrients, and proteins, finding use as natural fertilizers, medicines, and animal fodder ( Shah et al., 2020 ; Singh et al., 2022 ). Apart from their health benefits, legumes naturally have the ability to fix nitrogen from the atmosphere symbiotically, which has positive effects on agriculture and soil enrichment that are both long-lasting and economically viable.…”

Carbohydrate Profiling of Different Accessions of Three Underutilized Legumes: A Potential Source of Valuable Nutraceuticals and Pharmaceuticals

“…[ 2 ] They are an excellent source of complex carbohydrates and play an important role in providing energy to the body. [ 3 ] Carbohydrates are classified into monosaccharides, disaccharides, and polysaccharides. Monosaccharides are the most fundamental type of carbohydrates, consisting of glucose, fructose, and galactose.…”