“A study revealed that 90% of protein-claiming foods are considered less healthy, with over half containing high sodium or fat, and about a quarter containing high sugar or saturated fat.”

A study published in Nutrients found that more than half of processed foods with protein claims contained high levels of sodium or fat, and about a quarter had high amounts of free sugar or saturated fat.

The study analyzed 4,325 processed foods from the Spanish food database BADALI, categorizing them into 12 food types. Plant-based meat analogs were the most likely to have protein claims, with nearly 70% of these products making such claims.

Around 60% of products with protein claims had added protein, with plant-based proteins being added more frequently than animal proteins. The analysis suggested that protein fortification could significantly increase protein content.

The study also found changes in sugar, carbohydrate, total fat, and saturated fat content in high-protein products but no significant differences in sodium, energy, or fiber content. The nutrient profile model, developed by the Pan-American Health Organization (PAHO) and the World Health Organization (WHO) — Regional Office in the Americas, assessed components like sodium, fat, and free sugars.

However, the study had some limitations, including its focus on data from the Spanish market and using the BADALI database.

(Source:https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/why-not-all-high-protein-food-products-are-good-for-you#How-to-choose-better-protein-options)