Australians are getting plenty of protein, but a new analysis shows the vast majority are missing out on another essential nutrient: fibre. Health experts warn the national focus on protein may be contributing to a significant dietary gap with serious long-term consequences.
What the data shows about Australian diets
Figures compiled by the charity Doctors For Nutrients (DFN) reveal that 98.5 per cent of Australians already meet their daily protein requirements. However, 83 per cent are falling short of recommended fibre intake, despite Australia recording the world's highest rate of bowel cancer in people under 50.
The findings come as protein continues to dominate food marketing, from snack bars and supplements to menu items at major fast-food chains. Experts say this emphasis may be steering consumers away from fibre-rich foods.
Experts question the protein push
DFN chief executive Rebecca Stonor said the national conversation around nutrition has become unbalanced.
Protein has become the answer to almost every nutrition question, but for most Australians, protein is not the problem. The more important question is: where do you get your fibre?
Stonor pointed to declining interest in wholegrain products, such as multigrain bread, as a likely factor. Australians are advised to consume between 25 and 30 grams of fibre daily, but most fall well below this target.
Sydney-based nutritionist Mandy Sacher described the protein obsession as