Best Protein Sources per Calorie

Top foods ranked by protein-to-calorie ratio. These foods provide the most protein for the fewest calories — ideal for cutting, bo

Top 8 — Ranked by protein_efficiency

RankFoodMetricWhy
#1Chicken Breast5.3 cal/g protein165 cal, 31g protein per 100g. The gold standard for lean protein. Complete amino acid profile with 2.3g leucine per 100g.
#2Egg Whites4.6 cal/g protein52 cal, 11g protein per 100g. Pure protein, zero fat. Best source for pure protein efficiency.
#3Tuna (Canned in Water)4.5 cal/g protein116 cal, 25.5g protein per 100g. Complete protein. Watch mercury with daily consumption.
#4Turkey Breast4.5 cal/g protein135 cal, 30g protein per 100g. Slightly leaner than chicken. High tryptophan.
#5Nonfat Greek Yogurt5.8 cal/g protein59 cal, 10.2g protein per 100g. Also provides probiotics and calcium. Best dairy protein source.
#6Shrimp4.1 cal/g protein99 cal, 24g protein per 100g. Nearly pure protein. Also selenium-rich.
#7Tofu (Firm)9.4 cal/g protein76 cal, 8.1g protein per 100g. Best plant-based lean protein. Complete amino acid profile.
#8Lentils12.9 cal/g protein116 cal, 9g protein per 100g. Also 7.9g fiber. Best legume for protein + fiber combo.