Contribution of Proteins in Total Dietary Consumption

This map shows contribution of proteins in total dietary consumption.

• World: 11%
• Developed countries: 12%
• Developing World: 11%
• Sub-Saharan Africa: 10%

For high quality proteins, the requirements for most people can be met by providing 8-10% of total energy as protein. For predominantly vegetable-based, mixed diets, which are common in developing country settings, 10-12% is suggested to account for lower digestibility and increased incidence of diarrhoea disease. In the case of the elderly, where energy intake is low, protein should represent 12-14% of total energy.