Foods That Are Highest in Protein

Protein is an important part of every cell in the body. Protein is important for healthy bones, tissue, muscles, blood and skin, as well as for creating enzymes and hormones. People only need to eat a small amount of protein for proper functioning, and it is easy to obtain from a wide variety of foods. Those interested in higher-protein foods can mainly choose from animal products, nuts and seeds.

Meat and Fish

• Steak and other beef is a very high source of protein. Pork, ham, bacon, buffalo, turkey and chicken are as well. Fish--particularly tuna, pike and cod--is an excellent protein source.

Cheese and Yogurt

• All types of cheese, including soft, medium, hard and cottage cheese, provide a large amount of protein, as does yogurt.

Soy and Seaweed

• People can obtain a large amount of protein from tofu and soybeans, as well as spirulina seaweed.

Nuts and Seeds

• Many nuts and seeds are high in protein. Peanuts, almonds, cashews and pecans are the best choices for nuts, while sunflower, pumpkin and flax have the most protein in seeds.

Additional Sources

• There are other very high protein sources not common in the average American or European diet. These include seal, whale, scoter duck, emu and octopus.