Varanasi/ Muzaffarpur, Sep 28: A research team from Banaras Hindu University (BHU), led by Prof. Dinesh Chandra Rai, senior professor and currentlyVice Chancellor of Babasaheb Bhimrao Ambedkar Bihar University (BRABU), has published an open access review article titled “Exploring Alternative Protein Sources Toward Sustainable and Future Nutrition” in the Journal of Food Biochemistry (Wiley). The publication represents international collaboration involving top class academic institutions in India and Australia.

The article appears in the Special Issue “Women in Food Science Special Collection C: Advancing Protein Based Foods: Novel Sources, Enhanced Functionality, and Sustainable Solutions.” The contributing authors are Urvashi Vikranta, Ankita Hooda and Abhishek Dutt Tripathi from the Department of Dairy Science and Food Technology, Institute of Agricultural Sciences, Banaras Hindu University, Varanasi; Prof. Dinesh Chandra Rai from Banaras Hindu University, Varanasi and BRA Bihar University, Muzaffarpur; Dipendra Kumar Mahato from the CASS Food Research Centre, School of Exercise and Nutrition Sciences, Deakin University, Burwood, Australia; Pradeep Kumar from the Department of Botany, University of Lucknow; and Aparna Agarwal from Lady Irwin College, University of Delhi.
Sharing details of the publication, Prof. Dinesh Chandra Rai stated that the review examines plant based, cell based, culture based and insect protein based diets as viable alternatives to conventional animal derived proteins. It underscores the rising global demand for high quality, affordable and sustainable protein sources in the context of population growth, climate pressures and food security challenges.
Prof. Rai further noted that these alternative sources can help bridge nutrition gaps by offering accessible and nutrient dense options, particularly in communities with limited traditional protein intake. “Robust production systems, active regulatory participation and transparent manufacturing standards are essential. Consumers must also be assured that these proteins are safe, nutritious and appropriate for regular consumption. The objective is to expand dietary options that support human health while strengthening the resilience of food systems,” he observed. He expressed the expectation that the review will stimulate further scientific inquiry, industry engagement and informed policy development.
Scholars and alumni of both universities have conveyed their congratulations to Prof. Rai and the research team. Among those who extended their regards are Prof. B.S. Rai, Prof. Kanupriya, Prof. Rajeev Kumar, Prof. Navedul Haque, Dr. Shartendu Shekhar and Dr. Navin Kumar.