From 2020 to 2023, Sri Lanka experienced a significant rise in nutritional and micronutritional deficiencies due to the COVID-19 pandemic and subsequent economic challenges. As of May 2021, 20% of children under five were underweight (Ministry of Health of Sri Lanka. Emergency Nutrition Plan 2022-2024), with increases in stunting, wasting, or other nutrition-related conditions among children.

Although figures for youth are not available, it is expected that they follow a similar pattern of nutritional deficiencies. These issues stem from supply chain interruptions, high food prices, increased unemployment, reduced agricultural production, and loss of income. Together, these factors have severely impacted families' ability to access and afford nutritious meals.

Proteins are fundamental nutrients essential for maintaining health and coordinating bodily functions necessary for growth, development, reproduction, and lactation. This is especially crucial for children and youth, whose growth and development rely heavily on adequate protein intake.

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