Protein-wise speaking: Why soya chunks may be a better option than eggs amid Bengal’s mid-day meal debate

The Suvendu Adhikari-led BJP government’s decision to partner with ISKCON for mid-day meal in Kolkata Municipal Corporation (KMC) schools and replace eggs with vegetarian options like soya chunks, paneer and rajma triggered a massive row, with the Opposition TMC accusing the saffron party of imposing vegetarianism in the state.

TMC MP Derek O’Brien alleged that the BJP is depriving children of nutrition. His party colleague Mahua Moitra admitted soya is a first class protein but complained about its taste.

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Without going into the politics of the move, and speaking only protein and nutritionwise, soya is second to none.

A simple Google search on amount of protein in soya chunks vs eggs is enough to break the myth that the eggs are a better sources of protein.

In fact, on a gram-for-gram basis, soya chunks emerges clear winner as it contains roughly 52-53 gm of protein compared to just 12-13 gm in eggs.

Protein is essential for muscle building and overall growth of a human body. While eggs are considered the “gold standard” of protein by non-vegetarians, soya chunk is the “super sources of protein” for vegetarians.

Some nutritionists may argue that eggs are better source of protein as they contain all nine essential amino acids and are easier to digest.

However, Soya is also a complete protein unlike most plant-based foods even though it sits slightly below eggs on digestibility.

While eggs provide healthy fats, vitamin B12, vitamin D and choline, soya offers dietary fibre, which eggs do not contain.

Most vegetarian bodybuilder consume soya chunks to complete their daily protein intake.

In a nutshell, soya chunks are more affordable than eggs, have longer shelf life, require no refrigeration, and are easier to transport and store – factors that makes it a better option for large government nutrition programmes such as mid-day meal.

And if combined with paneer and rajma, they may even provide more nutritional value than eggs.

As far as the taste of soya chunks is concerned, as raised by the TMC MP, it entirely depends on the cook.

Disclaimer: The comparisons in this article are based on standard nutritional values and are not intended as dietary or medical advice.