Packing in protein - Today, Explained Recap

Podcast: Today, Explained

Published: 2026-02-16

Duration: 26 minutes

Guests: Chris Guyomali

Summary

The episode investigates the widespread incorporation of protein into everyday foods and drinks, tracing its rise from a waste product in the dairy industry to a dietary staple driven by fitness trends and consumer demand.

What Happened

Protein has become a ubiquitous addition in foods and drinks, with origins tracing back to the post-World War II era when whey, a byproduct of cheese production, was initially considered waste. Technological advancements in the 1970s allowed whey to be transformed into a powder, setting the stage for the modern protein supplement industry. The bodybuilding boom of the 1970s, partly inspired by Arnold Schwarzenegger, further fueled demand for protein as people sought to emulate the physiques of bodybuilders.

In the contemporary context, protein has transcended its bodybuilding roots, becoming a staple for a broader audience, including women and older adults, largely due to influencers like Dr. Gabrielle Lyon who emphasize its health benefits. The fitness and wellness industry has embraced this shift, with companies like General Mills incorporating protein into products ranging from cereals to snack bars.

The episode also highlights the role of startups and innovators in the protein space, such as the creation of protein sodas like Feisty, which offer lighter, more convenient protein options compared to traditional shakes. The founder of Feisty, a former Louis Vuitton designer, was inspired by her personal fitness journey and the desire for a more refreshing protein drink.

Scientific advancements are continually improving the ways protein can be integrated into plant-based foods, with researchers working to develop alternatives that are both nutritious and palatable. David Julian McClemons, a professor involved in this research, discusses the complexity of fortifying plant-based foods with protein.

The episode raises questions about whether the current obsession with protein might lead to overconsumption, but experts suggest that most people are not meeting the recommended daily intake, especially those who are active. As a result, the industry continues to cater to this demand, with retailers like Walmart and companies like Nestle exploring products designed for users of weight-loss medications that require nutrient-dense foods.

Overall, the protein craze reflects a broader cultural shift towards health and wellness, with societal factors like the COVID-19 pandemic motivating people to prioritize their health. The episode concludes by exploring the balance between convenience and nutritional quality in choosing protein-enriched foods.

Key Insights

• Protein's journey from waste to wellness staple began after World War II when whey, once discarded during cheese production, was transformed into powder in the 1970s. This pivot laid the foundation for today's multibillion-dollar protein supplement industry.
• Feisty, a protein soda brand founded by a former Louis Vuitton designer, emerged from her fitness journey and the desire for a refreshing protein drink. This reflects a shift towards lighter, more convenient protein options beyond traditional shakes.
• Scientific efforts to fortify plant-based foods with protein are complex, involving researchers like Professor David Julian McClemons. They aim to make plant-based alternatives both nutritious and palatable, a challenging task given the current state of food technology.
• Despite the protein craze, experts argue that many active individuals still fail to meet their recommended daily intake. Retailers like Walmart and companies like Nestle are responding by developing nutrient-dense products, especially for those using weight-loss medications.

Key Questions Answered

What does Today, Explained reveal about the origins of whey protein?

Whey protein originated as a byproduct of cheese production, initially considered waste until technological advancements in the 1970s allowed it to be transformed into a marketable powder.

How is protein being integrated into plant-based foods according to Chris Guyomali?

Protein is integrated into plant-based foods through processes that alter the food's composition at a granular level, allowing it to maintain its traditional form while being fortified with protein.

What role do fitness trends play in the protein craze discussed on Today, Explained?

Fitness trends heavily influence the protein craze, as the popularity of bodybuilding and health influencers drive demand for protein-enriched products to support active lifestyles.