The word protein comes from the Greek word “protos”, meaning first element. Proteins are essential elements for growth and repair, good functioning and structure of all living cells. Hormones, such as insulin, control blood sugar levels; enzymes, such as amylases, lipases, proteases are crucial for digestion of foods; antibodies help us fight infections; muscle proteins allow contraction, etc. So, indeed proteins are essential to life!

Every cell and tissue in the body contains protein. It is in the muscles, bones, hair, nails and skin, accounting for 20 percent of total body weight. In addition, different proteins work as enzymes, hormones, neurotransmitters, antibodies and specialised proteins such as haemoglobin and others, constantly repairing body tissues to keep it healthy

Based on scientific evidence from more than fifty independent studies, the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) is now allowing manufacturers of foods that have a minimum of 6.25g of soy protein per serving, to claim on the pack of a food or drink product that “25g of soy protein a day, as part of a diet low in saturated fat and cholesterol, may reduce the risk of heart disease”.