High-Protein Snacks Beyond Eggs: Top Picks

Explore high-protein snacks that aren't eggs. From Icelandic fish to hummus, boost your protein intake with these easy options.

By Marco AlbrightJul 17, 2026
High-Protein Snacks Beyond Eggs: Top Picks

High-Protein Snacks Beyond Eggs: Top Picks

For those aiming to reach their daily protein goals, alternatives to eggs abound. With 6 grams of protein per egg, they are convenient and nutritious, but there are other snacks that offer even more protein.

Meat and Fish Options

Gullfiskur Harfiskur (Icelandic Dried Fish)

This traditional Icelandic snack, described as "lean, briny, and pure," contains 80g of protein per 100g, according to David Higgins, author of The Hollywood Body Plan. It's simply dried white fish, providing high protein without any carbs. Higgins enjoys it with hummus or grain-based crackers.

Biltong

Considered jerky's sophisticated cousin, biltong is air-dried beef with 50g of protein per 100g. Higgins recommends The Biltong Factory's classic cut. Pair it with roasted chickpeas or lentil crackers for a complete amino acid profile.

Vegetarian Options

Seitan

Penny Weston, a physical trainer, highlights seitan's 25g of protein per 100g. Known for flavor absorption, seitan is popular among vegans and works well in various dishes like curries and stir-frys.

Edamame

Sas Parsad from The Gut Co praises young soybeans for their 11g of protein per 100g. They also contain fiber beneficial for gut health. Parsad recommends adding sea salt or using them in salads.

Seed-Based Powerhouses

Pumpkin Seeds

Pumpkin seeds offer 30g of protein per 100g, along with zinc and magnesium. Weston enjoys adding them to porridge, salads, or soups for a nutrient boost.

Hemp Seeds

Recommended by Parsad, hemp seeds provide 32g of protein per 100g. They also contain omega-3s and fiber, supporting brain health and reducing inflammation. Add them to smoothies or roasted vegetables.

More Protein-Rich Choices

Lupin Beans

These Mediterranean legumes offer 42g of protein per 100g when dry. Higgins suggests marinating them with lemon and herbs for a flavorful snack.

Cottage Cheese

Kristy Thomas from Prowise Healthcare highlights cottage cheese for its 14 grams of protein per half-cup. It's rich in casein, aiding muscle repair. Pair with fruit or grains for balance.

Hummus and Pita

Higgins notes that while hummus alone offers 12g of protein per 100g, its combination with tahini creates a complete amino acid profile. Add wholegrain pita and hemp seeds for a nutrient-packed snack.

Source: https://www.gq.com/story/9-tasty-high-protein-snacks-that-arent-eggs-4