A Clever Date for Protein Day

Today, and September 11th annually is, Protein Day たんぱく質の日 in Japan. It is an awareness day created by Meiji, the Tokyo-based dairy and nutrition company. The date comes from a clever scientific detail: protein is made up of 20 amino acids of which 9 are essential and 11 non-essential amino acids - a neat match for 9/11.

The purpose of Protein Day is to highlight how important protein is for people of all ages. Low protein intake can contribute to reduced stamina in children, nutritional gaps for women, slower metabolism in middle age, and decreased mobility in older adults. To address this, Meiji works with the Japan Dietetic Association, other food makers, and schools nationwide to promote better nutrition habits.

Officially registered in 2021, Protein Day encourages everyone to take a moment to think about how protein supports daily health, from strong muscles to healthy skin, and how easy it can be to add more of it to everyday meals.