Which of the following is an example of an incomplete protein?

An incomplete protein is one that does not contain all nine essential amino acids that the body cannot synthesize on its own and must obtain from food. Almonds are considered an incomplete protein because they lack sufficient amounts of some essential amino acids, particularly lysine. While almonds do provide a variety of nutrients and are a good source of certain amino acids, they do not provide a complete amino acid profile necessary for muscle repair and overall health.

On the other hand, eggs, chicken, and fish are complete proteins, as they contain all nine essential amino acids in adequate proportions. This makes food sources like these particularly valuable for dietary protein, especially for those focusing on muscle growth, recovery, or overall balanced nutrition. Understanding the distinction between complete and incomplete proteins is crucial for developing a well-rounded diet, particularly for individuals who may be vegetarian or vegan and need to combine different protein sources to ensure they receive all essential amino acids.