How much protein does one egg provide compared to pulses and vegetables? How much will it affect children’s nutrition?

Kolkata Mid Day Meal Egg Removed: The debate on children’s nutrition has intensified after the decision to remove eggs from the mid-day meal in Kolkata government schools and replace them with vegetarian options. The question being raised is whether pulses and vegetables can provide as much protein as eggs and what effect it can have on the health of children. Let us tell you about what effect it will have.

Why are eggs a better choice?

Eggs have long been considered a cheap and easy source of high-quality protein. A normal egg contains about 6 to 7 grams of protein. All the essential amino acids required for the body are found in it, hence it is also called complete protein. This is the reason why eggs are considered important in the diet of growing children.

Alternative to pulses and vegetables?

However, this does not mean that lentils are not a good source of protein. According to Dr. Sushma Appiah, a well-known nutrition consultant and founder of ‘Golz-Nutrition and Diet Solutions’, about 50 grams of raw lentils give about 12 grams of protein after cooking. This means that one bowl of lentils can provide protein equivalent to two eggs. Apart from this, fiber, iron and many essential nutrients are also present in pulses, which are beneficial for the body.

What is the difference between the two?

There is a big difference between eggs and lentils. The protein of egg is easily absorbed by the body, whereas the protein present in pulses also contains high amount of carbohydrates. Therefore, nutrition experts often recommend including both in a balanced diet. If for some reason eggs are not being given, then it is considered necessary to include milk, curd, cheese, soya or other protein-rich items along with pulses, so that the daily protein requirement of children can be met. The menu of mid-day meal is different in different states of India. In many states, children are given eggs a few days a week, while in some states, arrangements are made to provide nutrition through pulses, gram, cheese, milk and other vegetarian items.

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What is important for children?

Experts say that the most important thing for children is that they get adequate amount of protein, vitamins and minerals daily. If eggs are replaced with a vegetarian alternative that provides similar nutrition, the impact on children’s development may be less. But if nutrition is not compensated by simply removing the egg, it may increase the risk of affecting the health and physical development of the growing children.

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Disclaimer: This information is based on research studies and expert opinion. Do not consider this as a substitute for medical advice. Before adopting any new activity or exercise, please consult your doctor or relevant specialist.

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