The dedicated protein education initiative, ‘Right To Protein’, is celebrating ‘Soy Month’ in April. In a press statement released Wednesday, the initiative said the purpose behind the right to protein movement is to highlight the significance of sustainable food systems and protein-rich diets.

“With the focus on highlighting the role soybeans play in increasing sustainable food systems and protein-rich diets, the initiative is inviting all stakeholders to join in increasing awareness and understanding about the benefits of soy, soy-based foods and soy-fed animal sources of protein such as poultry and aqua,” the statement reads.

Protein deficiency is a significant issue in Nepal, with consequences for development and health. The World Food Programme (WFP) has reported that approximately 14 percent of the population in the country suffer from protein deficiency.

Soy-based food sources address this issue by providing a high-quality, plant-based protein source for consumption.

The key to improving the protein status of the population and achieving nutrition security is to promote food innovation and mass education, according to the initiative.

Soybeans are a versatile and nutrient-dense legume, with a range of health benefits. Soy foods are the only plant-based source of protein containing all nine essential amino acids, making them an ideal option for vegetarians and non-vegetarians alike.

“Celebrating Soy Month will encourage research and development of soybeans and create more opportunities for farmers in Nepal,” reads the statement.

Soy is used as an animal feed to enhance the protein content in animal-based products such as the quality of meat, poultry, and seafood.