Protein consumption in Norwegian adults and older adults: usual intake, adequacy, and the contribution of animal and plant-based protein sources

Purpose Focus on meat reduction has raised concerns about whether proposed ‘healthy and sustainable diets’ provide adequate protein. To support the important effort to reduce dietary environmental burden, we need comprehensive methods to assess protein intake. Methods In this study, we estimated the ratio of utilizable total protein and amino acid intake to requirements at both daily and meal-level in a Norwegian population of adults and older adults. Moreover, we examined the relationship between protein adequacy and plant protein intake. Results Our findings indicate that the overall prevalence of inadequate protein intake is low among both adults and older adults. However, the prevalence of inadequacy was approximately 7% among older women. Conclusion We argue that a substantial amount of protein-rich animal-source foods may be replaced with plant-based foods, without compromising protein intake.