A complete protein (or whole protein) is a protein that contains all of the essential amino acids for the dietary needs of humans or other animals. ^[1]

Common dietary sources of protein include meats, eggs, grains, legumes, nuts, and dairy products such as milk and cheese.^[2] Animal sources of proteins have the complete complement of all 8-10 essential amino acids. Certain vegetable sources also contain all 8-10 essential amino acids. However, many plant sources, while not entirely void, lack one or more amino acids in large enough quantity to be considered a complete source of protein. A variety of complete proteins in the diet are one way of assuring that the body's amino acid needs are met. Complete proteins are not necessary for this, however. All the essential amino acids can be obtained on their own from various everyday plant sources, which, contrary to popular belief, do not need to be combined in the same meal according to many health organizations (see: Protein combining).^[3]

Sources of complete protein

• Complete proteins can be found in animal foods, including meat, poultry, seafood, eggs, and dairy.^[1]
• Some plant and microbial sources also contain complete proteins, including Aphanizomenon flos-aquae, spirulina, quinoa^[4], soy, buckwheat, hempseed, and amaranth, among others.

Notes

1. ↑ ^{a b}
2. ↑ USDA National Nutrient Database for Standard Reference, Release 20, United States Department of Agriculture. Last modified on September 26, 2007.
3. ↑
4. ↑