Edible protein per unit area of land

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Edible protein per unit area of land is a measure of agricultural productivity. This measure for various major foodstuffs is shown in the chart below. Values are expressed for one calendar year. Biological Values and usable protein values have been added to the chart to show the true relative value of each foodstock for human consumption. Usable protein values are determined by the Biological Value of each foodstuff and represent the amount of protein that is fully digested by humans, it is calculated as follows (Edible protein * Biological Value = Usable protein).

Edible protein BV Usable protein Limiting amino acid
(g/) (lb/acre) (%) (g/) (lb/acre)
Soybeans 40.0 356 74 29 263
Rice 29.0 260 86 25 224 lysine
Legumes (average) 22.0 192 49 11 94 tryptophan
Milk 9.2 82 91 8.4 75 methionine or cysteine
Wheat 15.0 138 54 8.1 75 lysine
Eggs 8.5 76 94 8.0 71
Maize 24.0 211 32 7.7 68 tryptophan
Meat (average) 5.0 45 80 4 36
Beef 2.2 20 78 1.72 15.6 phenylalanine or tyrosine
Selected averages as computed in the 1970's




















[edit] See also

[edit] References

  • John Lobell (1981); The Little Green Book: A Guide to Self-Reliant Living in the 80's. Boston: Shambhala. ISBN 0-394-74924-3