Protein is an essential components of our bodies. Besides being used in many tissues, it also forms signal molecules, hormones, etc. This is why protein quality and quantity are important. What is protein A protein is a collection of peptides, which are collections of amino acids. These can be non-essential (i.e. we can make them in our bodies) or essential (i.e. we need to obtain them from food). Protein is also one of the 3 macronutrients (protein, carbohydrates, fat), i.e. the components in food that contribute to energy intake. Each gram of protein contributes ~17kJ (4kcal). Foods that are high in protein include meat, fish, eggs and dairy products. Legumes,…