David Higgins Recommends Icelandic Dried Fish and Biltong

High-protein snacking options expand beyond traditional choices with specialty items ranging from Icelandic dried fish to air-dried beef biltong. Nutritionists and physical trainers have identified distinct food options that deliver substantial protein without relying on eggs.

Dried Fish and Biltong Protein Options

Gullfiskur Harfiskur, an Icelandic dried fish, provides 80g of protein per 100g, according to David Higgins, author of The Hollywood Body Plan and co-founder of Bodyspace. Higgins describes the traditional Icelandic snack as lean, briny, and pure dried white fish with no carbs. He recommends pairing it with hummus or a grain-based cracker.

Biltong offers a seasoned, air-dried beef alternative containing 50g of protein per 100g. Higgins cites The Biltong Factory as a source for clean, chewy, and portionable classic cuts, suggesting they be paired with roasted chickpeas or lentil crackers to complete the amino acid chain.

Vegetarian Protein Sources and Seeds

For non-gluten-intolerant individuals, seitan serves as a plant-based alternative yielding up to 25g of protein per 100g, notes physical trainer and nutritionist Penny Weston. Its texture and flavor-absorbing qualities make it suitable for curries, stews, and stir-fries.

Sas Parsad, nutritionist and founder of The Gut Co., highlights edamame for supplying roughly 11g of protein per 100g alongside beneficial fiber that feeds gut bacteria. Parsad also recommends hemp seeds, which provide 32g of protein per 100g, omega-3 fatty acids, and prebiotic fiber for smoothies and roasted vegetables. Weston also notes that pumpkin seeds contain 30g of protein per 100g alongside zinc and magnesium, making them a nutrient-dense topper for porridge, salads, and soups.