Complete Proteins - Quick Reference

Definition of complete proteins

• Proteins that contain all nine essential amino acids in sufficient amounts for human needs.

Food sources

• Animal-based complete proteins: beef, pork, fish, poultry, eggs, dairy.
• Plant-based complete proteins: soy (tofu, tempeh, edamame), quinoa, buckwheat.
• Note: Most plant proteins are incomplete; combining different plant proteins across meals can provide all essential amino acids.

Quick CMA exam recall

• Where are complete proteins found? Animal products and select plant sources (soy, quinoa, buckwheat).
• Examples to mention: dairy, eggs, fish, soy products, quinoa, buckwheat.