As food landscapes continue to change, protein continues to be top-of-mind amongst healthcare practitioners and consumers. Protein requirements continue to be evaluated for optimizing health and wellbeing, while plant and animal foods both contribute to intakes of protein and essential amino acids. This presentation will provide an overview of protein recommendations under the current DRI framework and intakes of protein across the lifespan. The evolution of data suggesting updated protein recommendations will be presented. Current consumption levels and types of protein in the context of Canadian and American dietary guidelines will also be discussed. Finally, some of the regulatory and food labelling challenges for alignment with dietary guidelines, particularly for plant protein foods, will be introduced to suggest that there could be value in the re-evaluation regulatory frameworks for protein claims.
Dr. Marinangeli has a PhD in food and nutrition science and is a registered dietitian. He is a scientist and food industry professional with over 15 years of experience across consumer-packaged goods and the Canadian agriculture sector. He is experienced at leveraging human nutritional sciences to create new opportunities for differentiation and growth. He is a recognized expert in national and international food regulations and the effects of dietary components on cardiometabolic health. His expertise includes human nutrition science, regulatory affairs, and consumer insights and equity for developing effective strategies and tactics for dietary integration of healthy food options. Currently, Dr. Marinangeli leads the Centre for Regulatory Research and Innovation at Protein Industries Canada. Prior positions include senior nutritional and regulatory positions at Pulse Canada and Kellogg Canada. He has served on numerous advisory committees, including a member of the Canadian Advisory Committee for ILSI North America, and Jury Member for Agriculture Agri-food Canada’s Food Waste Reduction Challenge: Novel Technologies. He currently serves on the Scientific Advisory Committee for Canadian Federation of Dietetic Research, and Human Research Ethics Board for Agriculture Agri-Food Canada.