IPB University Professor: Eggs Are a Cheap Source of Protein, but Have a Big Impact on Stunting
IPB University Professor of Nutrition, Prof drh M Rizal M Damanik, emphasized that eggs are a cheap and highly nutritious source of animal protein that is essential from pregnancy through early childhood.
“When discussing quality human development in preparation for Indonesia’s Golden Age in 2045, attention to nutritional intake during the first 1000 days of life (HPK) is non-negotiable,” he said in an exclusive dialogue on the Jendela Negeri program broadcast by TVRI (6/12).
Prevent Stunting to Achieve Excellent Human Resources
Furthermore, Prof Rizal, who is also a lecturer at the Faculty of Human Ecology at IPB University, noted that one of the major challenges Indonesia currently faces is the issue of stunting or failure to thrive in children.
According to data, in 2019, the national stunting prevalence rate reached 27,7 percent. Thanks to collaborative efforts by various parties, this figure has decreased to 19,6 percent by 2024. However, this figure still needs to be reduced further to achieve the Indonesia Emas 2045 target.
“Stunting is not just about height but also affects brain development, learning ability, and future productivity. This is where eggs play a crucial role as a protein-rich food containing essential amino acids, which support optimal growth of brain cells and the body,” he explained.
Eggs: A Cost-Effective Investment with Significant Impact
Prof Rizal explained that with egg prices ranging from Rp25.000 to Rp30.000 per kilogram (approximately 15–17 eggs), it is actually sufficient to meet a child’s protein needs for an entire week. He even compared egg prices to cigarette expenditures, which remain a top priority in many households in Indonesia.
“Data from the Central Statistics Agency (BPS) shows that household spending on cigarettes is still higher than spending on protein sources like eggs. Yet, two eggs per day can be a small investment with a big impact on our human resource development,” he emphasized.
Challenges of Myths and Lack of Education
Unfortunately, many people remain hesitant to consume eggs due to myths such as causing boils, acne, or high cholesterol. Prof Rizal addressed this by emphasizing the importance of science-based education.
“The cholesterol in one egg is still within safe limits, around 170 mg, while the daily requirement for adults is 300 mg. Issues like boils are more often caused by environmental and personal hygiene, not by eating eggs,” he explained.
The Role of Families and Mass Education
Prof Rizal also urged all parties to collaborate in educating the public, particularly parents and prospective brides and grooms. “Nutritional improvement must begin long before pregnancy. Education should target teenagers, prospective brides and grooms, pregnant women, and parents. They play a key role in ensuring that the next generation is free from stunting and ready to embrace Indonesia’s Golden Age in 2045,” he concluded. (Fj) (IAAS/LAN)
