Which food group is considered the best source of complete proteins?

Complete proteins contain all nine essential amino acids that the body cannot produce on its own. Animal products, such as meat, fish, and dairy, are recognized as the best sources of complete proteins because they provide these essential amino acids in sufficient quantities and in forms that are easily absorbed by the body.

Meat and fish provide high-quality protein along with valuable nutrients like iron, zinc, and B vitamins, which are important for various bodily functions. Dairy products, such as milk and cheese, also offer complete protein along with calcium, which is crucial for bone health.

In contrast, other food groups like legumes and beans, nuts and seeds, and vegetables and fruits typically contain incomplete proteins, meaning they lack one or more of the essential amino acids. While these plant-based sources can be combined (for instance, beans and rice together) to achieve a complete protein profile, they do not individually meet the complete amino acid requirement as efficiently as animal products do.