What is so Special about Potato Protein?

A medium 5.3 oz skin on potato has 3 grams of protein. Protein is an important component of almost every cell and tissue in the body. Protein is made up of amino acids. There are 20 amino acids with biological significance; however, only nine are essential, meaning that our bodies cannot synthesize them and they must be obtained through food.

Key Facts About Protein

• A medium-size 5.3 oz potato with skin-on provides 3 grams of plant-based protein.
• The 3 grams of protein in one skin-on 5.3 oz potato exceeds that of all other commonly consumed vegetables, except dried beans.
• The Dietary Guidelines recommend eating a variety of plant-based foods to improve overall health.

Functions of Protein

Proteins play many important roles in the body including:

• Providing structure: Protein is a key component of muscle, tendons, ligaments and connective tissues like collagen. In addition, our skin, hair and nails contain significant amounts of protein.
• Regulating metabolic processes: Enzymes which catalyze chemical reactions, hormones which regulate metabolic processes and cytokines that bind to the surface of cells and influence their functions are all proteins.
• Transporting substances: Transport proteins carry important substances in the body. For example, hemoglobin and myoglobin carry oxygen, albumin carries several vitamins and minerals as well as fatty acids, and transferrin and ferritin carry iron.
• Balancing fluid and electrolytes: Proteins, especially those found in the blood, help regulate fluid balance. Amino acids can be either positively or negatively charged, thus allowing them to help the body achieve acid-base balance and optimal pH.
• Providing energy: Protein provides 4 calories per gram (similar to carbohydrate); however, under normal circumstances protein contributes little to energy production. Under stressful conditions (e.g., severe illness, starvation, diabetic ketoacidosis) protein becomes a more significant source of energy; but, to the detriment of health.

Protein Recommendations

The current recommended dietary allowance (RDA) for protein is .8 grams per kilogram of body weight and the acceptable macronutrient distribution range (AMDR) is 10%-35% of total daily energy intake from protein. One 5.3-ounce skin-on potato is a source of 3 grams of plant-based protein. Current dietary guidance recommends substituting plant-based proteins for some animal-based proteins to improve overall health and support the environment.

So Why Potato Protein?

It is a highly functional protein for humans. It is great for the human body and for dogs as well!

• An excellent source of vitamin C
• A good source of potassium (more than a banana!)
• A good source of vitamin B6
• Potatoes are nutrient-dense complex carbohydrates
• Potatoes are fat-, sodium- and cholesterol-free
• Potatoes are only 110 calories per serving