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Protein is obviously one of the most important types of nutrient the body needs, playing countless vital roles in staying healthy, but it can also be hard to get enough to really maximise the benefits, particularly if you're on a plant based diet. Seeds are a severely underrated, but incredible source of protein, but the amounts do vary from seed to seed. In this article we'll explain exactly why protein is so important, what seeds contain the most, and some of their other surprising health benefits.

Why protein is so important

Protein is a massively important nutrient, and it would be impossible to mention everything it does, but here we'll focus on some of its most important functions.

Arguably the most important reason to make sure you're getting enough protein, is because of its importance in building and repairing tissues in the body. As protein helps to build tissue and muscle, it is absolutely vital for growth and development, as well as recovery from injuries.

Not having enough protein in your diet can have serious effects on your health, such as muscle loss, fatigue and a massively weakened immune system. The British Heart Foundation recommends the average adult should consume roughly 0.75g of protein per kilo of body weight, placing a particular emphasis on consuming plant based proteins (like seeds) in place of red meat and poultry.

The 6 highest protein seeds

While most seeds do contain protein, these are our picks for the top 6 — here we'll cover their protein content, additional health benefits and how to use them.

6. Sesame seeds — 4.8g of protein per 28g

Sesame seeds are a staple ingredient in Asian and Middle Eastern cuisine, and with their protein content they should be a staple in your pantry too. While sesame seeds may not have the most protein on this list, they are incredibly easy to use in your cooking, and have a range of other health benefits that make them worth including in your diet.

Sesame seeds are not only high in protein, but also zinc, which is hugely important for maintaining a healthy immune system, wound healing and crucially the synthesis of protein.

5. Flaxseed/Linseed — 5g of protein per 28g

Flaxseed (also known as linseed) can come in two varieties — brown or gold — and their nutritional content is typically the same or incredibly similar. Flaxseed is often used as a gluten free substitute for wheat, and contains even more protein. Flaxseed can be ground and turned into flour, sprinkled into smoothies and salads or mixed with water and drank for a quick burst of nutrition.

Flaxseed contains a great deal of omega 6 fatty acids, which most seeds do, but it is uniquely high in linoleic acid. Linoleic acid is a type of fatty acid that is vital for maintaining healthy skin, while also helping to keep your immune system healthy and lowering cholesterol.

It's important as you add flaxseed into your diet that you increase your water consumption too, otherwise you could suffer from some digestive discomfort and dehydration as a result of their high fibre content.

4. Chia seeds — 5g of protein per 28g

Chia seeds are one of the most popular superfoods in the world, partly due to their high protein content, but also a variety of other nutrients each with their own health benefits. In particular chia seeds are so highly valued because of their status as a complete protein. The term complete protein refers to an ingredient that contains all nine essential amino acids that the body needs but can't produce itself, and obviously comes with countless health benefits because of this.

In particular chia seeds are an amazing way to improve your digestion because of their incredibly high fibre content. Similarly chia seeds are surging in popularity as a tool to assist with weight management — this is because when eaten, the fibre forms a gel like texture in your stomach that leaves you feeling fuller for longer.

Chia seeds can be soaked in water or sprinkled directly into food, depending on the texture you would like from them; however for optimal nutritional content it is best to soak your chia seeds in order to speed up the rate of digestion and absorption.

3. Sunflower seeds — 7g of protein per 28g

Sunflower seeds contain a whopping 7 grams of protein per 28 grams, making them one of the best seeds in terms of protein content, while also remaining incredibly convenient to cook with and snack on. Sunflower seeds can be roasted to really bring out their nutty flavour, and make them a perfect addition to almost any savoury recipe that could do with some additional texture.

Sunflower seeds are also high in healthy fats, vitamin E and selenium. Selenium plays a vital role in antioxidant protection, thyroid health and helps to maintain a strong immune system.

2. Pumpkin seeds — 8.5g of protein per 28g

Pumpkin seeds contain a huge amount of protein, and are arguably the most convenient seed to incorporate in your diet. Pumpkin seeds are a great snack on their own, but they really start to thrive when used in salads and soups, particularly when combined with other autumnal vegetables. Pumpkin seeds don't just contain a vast amount of protein, but also a great deal of vitamin E. Vitamin E is a massively important part of a healthy lifestyle, primarily for its role in keeping our skin healthy and maintaining strong eyesight.

1. Hemp seeds — 9.5g of protein per 28g

Without a doubt hemp seeds are one of the best seeds in terms of protein content alone. Not only do hemp seeds contain a colossal 9.5 grams of protein (per 28 grams), they are also a complete protein, and so they share a lot of the benefits of chia seeds but with even more protein on top. For those that haven't cooked with hemp seeds before they may sound a little intimidating, but this is not the case at all. In reality hemp seeds are quite similar to pumpkin seeds, arguably with even more versatility. Hemp seeds can be added raw into smoothies or porridges, or toasted and added into salads, soups and stews.

Dive into the world of seeds now

This list mainly focused on which seeds you should eat in regard to protein intake, but the health benefits of seeds don't stop there, and you shouldn't limit yourself to the ones we've mentioned here. To avoid getting bored of the same flavours again and again, it's best to mix up the type of seed you're eating, and how you're using them. If you're stumped and looking for some inspiration, we have a large array of seeds available, and countless recipes that will show you how to use them.

Frequently asked questions

Which seed has the most protein?

Hemp seeds top the list with 9.5g of protein per 28g serving — the highest of any common edible seed. Pumpkin seeds come second at 8.5g, followed by sunflower (7g), chia (5g), flaxseed (5g) and sesame (4.8g).

How much protein is in chia seeds vs hemp seeds?

Hemp seeds contain 9.5g of protein per 28g, while chia seeds contain 5g per 28g — so hemp has almost double the protein. Both are complete proteins, meaning both contain all nine essential amino acids.

Are seeds a complete protein?

Two seeds are complete proteins: chia and hemp. Both contain all nine essential amino acids your body needs but can't produce. Other seeds like pumpkin and sunflower are high in protein but not complete on their own — combine them with grains or legumes to fill the gap.

Can seeds replace meat as a protein source?

Yes, seeds can be a meaningful protein source in a plant-based diet, but you'll need variety. Hemp and chia are complete proteins, and combining seeds with legumes, grains and nuts ensures you hit your daily protein needs without relying on meat.

How many seeds should I eat per day for protein?

Most adults benefit from 1–2 tablespoons (15–28g) of mixed seeds per day. The British Heart Foundation recommends 0.75g of protein per kilo of body weight daily; seeds can comfortably contribute a third of that target in a balanced diet.