An event was held to announce the designation of 9/3 as a day promoting morning protein intake, featuring the presentation of a commemorative certificate and a talk session. Supporting members and experts also took part, and specific suggestions were presented for adding protein to breakfast.
朝たんぱく協会 held an event to mark the designation of 9/3 as “Morning Protein Day,” where Tomoyasu Tamiya (田宮智康), secretary-general of the Japan Anniversary Association, presented a registration certificate. Former figure skater Narumi Takahashi (高橋成美) was invited as a special guest for a talk session, which was also attended by Junichi Kamei (亀井淳一), a department manager at supporting member キッコーマンソイフーズ, and university professors serving as experts.
In his opening remarks, Kamei explained that the association was established in response to the recognition that insufficient morning protein intake is a social issue. He said that people tend to fall short of their daily protein intake in the morning and stressed the importance of making up the shortfall at breakfast. He also explained that consuming protein in the morning may help maintain muscle mass and raise body temperature.
As specific ways to make up the shortfall, the association proposed adding one item such as eggs, natto, milk, soy milk, yogurt, chikuwa or tofu to breakfast. People who do not eat breakfast were advised to start with foods that are easy to eat.
The designation is intended to promote protein intake at all 3 meals during September, which is Health Promotion Awareness Month, a time when people may suffer from summer fatigue and disrupted daily routines. The wordplay “9-ku, 3-mi” conveys the idea of consuming a well-balanced combination of foods without relying too heavily on any particular ingredient.