Protein Ideas for a Picky Eater

Since I'm a vegan, I can tell you that if he's eating a lot of veggies, he's probably getting way more protein than you realize. Plus, milk has animal protein as well. I wouldn't push it. If you do some reading up, you'll find that we don't need meat as much as most people think. I'd cheer on his veggies and not worry about the meat so much.

Hi S.,

I also have a "picky" eater and know that it doesn't last forever. Mine only wanted "white" foods (crackers, bread, noodles and rice) for her first three and a half years. This was extremely difficult for me because I am a Health Counselor and I focus on WHOLE foods that are high in nutrients. She certainly challenged me. Imagine my surprise when she started eating salads and plenty of fresh produce.
So keep introducing the foods you want him to eat and be patient.

In the meantime, while we do need protein, we do not need as much as we have been told we need and it doesn't all need to come from animal sources (though there are nutrients we only get from animal sources). Try finding bread (Ezekiel is a good one) high in protein, Sunshine Garden Burgers (Whole Foods), Quinoa, Beans, Tofu, Tempeh (I like this soy protein better than tofu) and Seitan (most like meat-but it is wheat gluten), natural almond/peanut butter (without hydrogenated oil).

I really would not worry that he will not eat meat or eggs. The truth is the stuff we buy at the grocery (unless your buying organic, free range) likely does more harm than good. There is probably a very good reason he is rejecting it and I would not force it although it's o.k. to offer it if it's what you are eating anyway, unless you find he is allergic.

If you want more ideas, please feel free to email me: ____@____.com or check out my website for recipe ideas www.cincyhealthcoach.com

Be Well,

P.

My son is a picky eater and would go days without eating anything because he did not "like" anything that i was making even though he had never tried it. My son is 4 now and this has been going on for at least 2 years now, to the point where my mother-in-law doesnt even try to get him to eat supper she just makes him his own meal. Well he have started to make him try things that he should be eating. He has to try at least 2 bites of something new and have at least 4 bites of something that I know he likes that is on his plate before he can get down from the table. It seems to be working but if he puts up a huge fight about it i don't force the issue but 99% of the time he does not fight with me and usually cleans his plate. Now i know what you are thinking they eat when they are hungry and I am forcing him to eat. I have to say that we have been doing this for a couple months now and he is still healthy at about 36 pounds. Good luck to you and hope the ideas help you out!

Hi S.,

I have a 17-month old son. He had a doctor's appointment a few weeks ago and I was shocked to find out his iron was a little low. Life your son, my son is picky and does not like meat. I told this to the doctor and she recommended peanut butter. I put a bit on a slice of bread for lunch and snack and he loves it. For some reason also, he will eat ravioli with meat but not in spaghetti. Go figure! There is a couple of great websites online called www.mypyramid.gov and www.sparkpeople.com that can help you with food choices. Good luck!

Dear S.,

It sounds like your son's body is leading him into a wonderfully healthy future! The fact that he likes veggies and fruits so much is a good thing.

Have you tried giving him nuts of any kind? Almonds, cashews, walnuts ~ they're all great sources of protein. You could try some slivered almonds (for example) cooked with some of his favorite foods.

Since he likes his legumes, soy is an excellent source of protein. Has he ever tried edamame as a snack food? Also, using soy milk instead of cow's milk is a good thing, too.

Meat and meat protein are vastly overrated in our society, and not nearly as necessary as people seem to think they are. :)

If you're in Columbus, I can give you the name of an M.D. who originally practiced as a pediatrician, but now works with peole of all ages to improve their diets and their health. She takes a naturopathic approach with her patients, and she is very good at communicating exactly what foods will be the best sources of various vitamins, minerals, proteins, and good carbs. Just e-mail me if you're interested in making an appointment with her to evaluate your son's diet.

Hi S.
How about tofu or peanut butter. My daughter really likes peanut butter on slices of apples and bananas. And for tofu you can melt butter and roll the tofu in it and dip into cinammon and sugar and bake. Or lightly fry it with peppers and onions to get the flavor, etc. Good luck!

S.
I'm sure you know it's all in the presentation of what he's going to like!!! I am a grandma of six and my grandchildren are always excited to come to my house because I have such "good" treats. They consist of protien drinks that I mix in a variety of ways and flavors some of them like smothies. They also get snack bars , that they ask for, that are great!! If you are interested please let me know, I think I can help you.
Good Luck
S.

Have you tried any protein bars? Cliff bars makes one specifically for kids...my son loves them.

If he's eating beans, nuts, fruits and veggies, and whole grains he's getting plenty of protein (and a super healthy diet!). Add dairy on top of that, and you have absolutely nothing to worry about. Peas are a good source of protein, and I seem to remember that oatmeal is decent as well.

If you really are concerned, you could try tofu. My ds loves it, and it would be easier to "hide" than meat. But really, if you do a search on the protein content of different foods, and the daily requirement for a child, you'll see that he's just fine :)

http://www.vrg.org/nutrition/protein.htm

You might try tofu in different ways - firmer cut long and thin to look like a veggie, or the softer kind made into a pudding. It will take on the flavor of whatever you sautee it in or whatever ingredients you put with it - i'm sure you could find some recipes on the internet.

Good luck.

Hi S.,
My son also doesn’t really like eating meat yet. He just turned 12 months. I put some protein in his diet by combining foods he likes. He absolutely loves tofu and green peas. He will eat tofu with just about any veggie. He also really likes oatmeal. Both tofu and oatmeal are good non-meat sources for protein. Although, I love eating meat, I decided to try getting more veggies into my diet. I few years ago, I found a wonderful vegetarian cookbook. I got the following information from that book. I paraphrased it. There are two pages devoted to telling how to get more protein in your diet. If you want to learn more here is the actual cookbook. “the essential vegetarian cookbook” Published by Murdoch Books, 1996 copy right.

A “complete” protein has 23 different amino acids. The human body is actually capable of making most of these amino acids when provided with a varied enough diet. There are only 8 amino acids that need to be taken directly from food. If you combine certain types of foods than your body can create a complete protein out of those foods. Vegetarians usually combine foods to get the 8 lacking amino acids that others get from animal sources. Some examples of food combining to form a complete protein:

1. *Peanut butter sandwiches (using whole wheat bread is best) *Only serve peanut butter if you know that your child doesn’t have a peanut allergy. Then, only serve the creamy variety of peanut butter. I’ve heard that nuts are usually not advised until after age 6.
2. Beans on rice (any kind of bean would work, black beans, chickpeas, kidney beans just to name a few)
3. Pea soup with toast
4.Cheese and Rice
5. Tofu and green peas
6. Pasta and cheese
7. Beans and vegetables
8. Tofu with fruit puree
9. Oatmeal and green peas
10. Yogurt and Oatmeal
11. Barley Cereal with milk
12. Cheese on rolled bread
I hope that helps. Happy eating,
D.

Hi S.,
What I've done for my sons (ages 3.5 yrs and 13 mos) is add the chicken/turkey/beef to a fruit or sweet veggie (since they love those). For example, I mix chicken with apples (blended for my younger son), and turkey with sweet potatoes, and beef with squash. At least it helps get them to eat protein. Thankfully they both love scrambled eggs, too!
Good luck!
~K

Cottage cheese actually has a good amount of protein & my daughter really likes it! The idea of Boost or Ensure protein drinks is a great idea, too! They taste pretty good!

Cheese sticks, cheese slices, creamed cheese on toast, etc. Cheese is a protein. Yogurt and cottage cheese are both forms of protein as well, although not to the degree you are wanting him to have.
Maybe he will just always be a vegetarian. Some people are and manage quite well.
I wouldn't worry about it too much at his age. The doctors once told me children crave the foods their bodies need. It is to bad adults don't listen to their bodies and eat what it wants instead of what they want it to have.

I understand your problem, because my son will only eat chicken and an occasional hot dog, and he is almost 4. I feed him things with peanut butter, such as cheese and pb crackers and pb and jelly sandwich. I also use yogurt and cheese for his protein items. I hope this helps.

There are cans of stuff you can buy and give him daily for protein kind of like the stuff they market for the elderly.It comes in differant flavors and in small packages so to them it looks like a treat.As long as he is thriving and seems to have energy to burn I wouldn't worry too much.There are many other protien source's other than meat.

My son is very picky but it is do to his autism. He doesn't eat meat either. He loves however Raisin bread toast spread w/ peanut butter. (he is picky so it has to be peter pan peanut butter) during that major recall a while back.. he refused any of that until it came back on the market...

beans? baked beans, black beans, chick peas. Maybe you could buy baby pureed meat and mix it in with the mac and cheese (so he can't see it) if you're really worried about the amount he's getting, however this won't help him to overcome his pickiness. I would just keep offering it - eventually he'll come around - it's pretty common for them to be picky at this age.

Well, it may be a little while before he discovers he likes meat, but you could try beans of all varieties for now as well. Garbanza, black, kidney. We do a lot of quesadillas and often put beans and corn in them. You can mix it into any pasta and spread it on sandwiches. You may also try hummus a bit again in a lot of the same ways.

Good luck!

Hi S.! My daughter loves Mona Vie. I mix very little with some apple juice and she's good to go. She's a picky eater too! Mona Vie has acai with a protein profile similar to an egg. Infants in brazil that cannot breast feed are fed this amazing amazonian berry. Mona Vie has the most potent acai available, not to mention another 18 of the worlds most nutritious fruits. Several of our local doctors are drinking and sharing Mona Vie because they've seen the results in the improved health of some of their patients. It's got to be the healthiest thing you could put into your body and is safe for children! It's very low in sugar too, even though it's fruit. This company is the fastest growing privately held company in the US for a reason...it works! You have got to hear more! Just get back to me! God Bless!
N. L.

our fall back is a peanut butter sandwich and yogurt :)

Try soy products. Most are sold in regular grocery stores in the vegetarian/health food section. You can also try the health food store to see what vegetarian products they sell. We love Morningstar Farms and Boca (sold at Kroger, Scotts, Meijer, Target, etc). They make veggie burgers, corn dogs, steak and chicken strips, ground up veggie burger, veggies dogs, chicken nuggets and tenders, sausage patties/links, breakfast burrito...They taste different than meat and a lot healthier as well. I started my son off with these products and he can tell the difference when I do give him real meat (I rarely do). You can also give him beans which are high in protein as well.

My son is the same way. Sometimes, on a day where he really hasn't gotten a lot of protein, we will make him a "special milkshake" which consists of a carton of vanilla yogurt, frozen fruit (you can do berries of any kind~ his favorite is strawberries and peaches), a scoop of rice protein powder, and enough milk to make it drinkable through a straw. He loves them! They're very refreshing for me after a workout, too!

How about nuts? Peanuts and peanut butter are great sources of protein. Almonds, pecans... they are all good. They even make great roasted soy nuts that are great- and soy protein is really good for you. I've also given my son that special K water (south beach also makes it) its supposed to be for dieting but has protein and fiber in it. Also carnation instant breakfast makes some that has extra protein so you can make a treat of chocolate milk healthier. My son wanted nothing to do with meat until about 6 months ago- and he's 6! I called him my little vegetarian- and even now it has to be done to his liking- if the texture isn't right he doesn't want it- I'm the same way though so I really dont blame him. Good luck!!

My daughter is 22 months and the same way! I can rarely get her to eat a couple bites of meat. She does however like salami which I find is strange! She will also eat turkey sausage every now and then. I discussed it with her pediatician who said not to be overly concerned, but to keep offering it to her. She said also try to give her peanut butter if she will eat it a couple of times a week which is hit or miss with my daughter. She said if otherwise is eating good and eating yogurt, milk and cheese then it will be ok.

From what I hear from others, keep offering it as one day they just might start eating it.

I don't bother trying to hide it in other foods anymore...she's too smart for that one and just spits it out and won't eat any of it!

Good luck to you!

I would not worry, that sounds like my youngest daughter who is now almost 5 and still is a VERY VERY picky eater. She hardly eats meat and all she wants is fruits and veggies. Her doctor said that is ok and that if she is drinking milk she is getting her calcuim and protein needed (plus she is lactose intolerant and has to drink rice milk).

I can see that slowly she is wanting to try new things so it does happen eventually and believe me I am a meat and potato person myself.

He may be picky about eating meat because he doesn't like the texture. I think my brother and I both went through that. My older son, now 4 years old, went through that too. He just now started eating chicken, hotdogs and hamburger now and again. He doesn't like anything on it though. He wants it plain. Maybe try plain meat?

There are multiple protein sources out there that are not based on meat. Many believe that those sources of protein are more healthy because they do not contain the saturated fats in meat. Additionally, farmers often give animals hormones and anti-biotics that are passed into the meat. So... it's technically more healthy to eat non-meat proteins.

Here's a link on non-meat proteins:
http://www.powerofmeat.com/non_meat_protein.htm

These foods contain protein: butter, legumes (beans), nuts, seeds, soy products, trail mix and vegetable protein products.

• Beans
• Lentil Wafers (Papad), Broiled
• Lentils
• Lentils, boiled
• Lentils, boiled, with added salt
• Lentils, Boiled
• Lentils, Boiled with Salt
• Lentils, Dry
• Lentils, raw
• Lentils, sprouted
• Lentils, sprouted, stri-fried
• Peanuts
• Peas
• Pink Lentils
• WESTBRAE NATURAL Organic Black Beluga Lentils
• WESTBRAE NATURAL Organic Lentils

• Acorns
• Acorns
• Acorns, dried
• Almonds, Blanched
• Almonds, Chopped
• Almonds, dried, blanched
• Almonds, dried, unblanched
• Almonds, dry roasted, unblanched, without added salt
• Almonds, Dry Roasted, No Salt Added
• Almonds, Dry Roasted, Salted
• Almonds, Dry Roasted, Unblanched, Salted
• Almonds, honey roasted, unblanched
• Almonds, Honey Roasted, Unblanched
• Almonds, oil roasted (in high oleic safflower oil), unblanched, without added salt
• Almonds, oil roasted, blanched
• Almonds, Oil Roasted, Blanched, Salted
• Almonds, Oil Roasted, No Salt Added
• Almonds, Oil Roasted, Salted
• Almonds, Oil Roasted, Unblanched, Salted
• Almonds, Slivered
• Almonds, toasted, unblanched
• ATKINS Cinnamon Praline Almonds
• ATKINS Cinnamon Praline Pecans
• Beechnuts, dried
• BLUE DIAMOND Almonds, Chili with Lemon
• BLUE DIAMOND Almonds, Honey Roasted
• BLUE DIAMOND Barbeque Almonds
• BLUE DIAMOND Blanched Almonds, Slivered
• BLUE DIAMOND Blanched Almonds, Whole
• BLUE DIAMOND Dry Roasted Almonds, No Salt
• BLUE DIAMOND Macadamias, Salted
• BLUE DIAMOND Natural Almonds, Chopped
• BLUE DIAMOND Natural Almonds, Sliced
• BLUE DIAMOND Natural Pistachios
• BLUE DIAMOND Red Pistachios
• BLUE DIAMOND SMOKEHOUSE Almonds
• BLUE DIAMOND Whole Natural Almonds
• Brazilnuts, dried, unblanched
• Butternuts (long walnuts), dried
• Canarytree Nuts (Pilinuts), Dried
• Cashew Nuts, dry roasted
• Cashew Nuts, Dry Roasted, with Salt Added
• Cashew Nuts, oil roasted
• Cashew Nuts, Oil Roasted, with Salt Added
• Cashew Nuts, Raw
• Cashew Nuts, Raw
• Cashews, Dry Roasted
• Cashews, Dry Roasted, Salted
• Cashews, Oil Roasted
• Cashews, Oil Roasted, Salted
• Chinese Chestnuts
• Chinese Chestnuts, boiled and steamed
• Chinese Chestnuts, Boiled and Steamed
• Chinese Chestnuts, dried
• Chinese Chestnuts, raw
• Chinese Chestnuts, roasted
• Chinese Chestnuts, Roasted
• Composite-Nuts and Seeds
• Dried Acorns
• Dried Beechnuts
• Dried Black Walnuts, Chopped
• Dried Black Walnuts, Ground
• Dried Brazil Nuts, Unblanched
• Dried Butternuts
• Dried Chinese Chestnuts
• Dried European Chestnuts, Peeled
• Dried European Chestnuts, Unpeeled
• Dried Ginkgo Nuts
• Dried Ginkgo Nuts
• Dried Hickorynut
• Dried Hickorynuts
• Dried Japanese Chestnuts
• Dried Piilinuts Canary Tree
• Dried Pine Nuts or Pignolia
• Dried Pine Nuts or Pinyon
• Dried Pistachio Nuts
• EDEN FOODS Organic Tamari Almonds, Dry Roasted
• English or Persian Walnuts
• European Chestnuts (sweet), boiled and steamed
• European Chestnuts (sweet), dried, peeled
• European Chestnuts (sweet), dried, unpeeled
• European Chestnuts (sweet), peeled
• European Chestnuts (sweet), roasted
• European Chestnuts (sweet), unpeeled
• European Chestnuts, Boiled and Steamed
• European Chestnuts, Peeled
• European Chestnuts, Roasted
• European Chestnuts, Unpeeled
• Filbert or Hazelnut, Dry Roasted, Unblanched, Salted
• Filbert or Hazelnut, Oil Roasted, Unblanched, Salted
• Filberts or Hazelnuts
• Filberts or Hazelnuts, dried, blanched
• Filberts or Hazelnuts, dried, unblanched
• Filberts or Hazelnuts, dry roasted, unblanched
• Filberts or Hazelnuts, oil roasted, unblanched
• FISHER Cashew Halves, Oil Roasted, Salted
• FISHER Cashews, Whole, Oil Roasted
• FISHER FAVORITES Honey Glazed Nut Mix with Cashews
• FISHER FAVORITES Praline Glazed Nut Mix with Cashews
• FISHER FAVORITES Toffee Glazed Nut Mix with Cashews
• FISHER Mixed Nuts, Lightly Salted
• FISHER Mixed Nuts, Salted
• FISHER Peanut & Cashew Mix, Honey Roasted
• FISHER Red Pistachios
• Formulated Nuts, Wheat Based, All Flavors Except Macadamia, with No Salt Added
• Formulated Nuts, Wheat Based, Macadamia Flavored, with No Salt Added
• Formulated Nuts, Wheat Based, with Salt Added
• GENISOY Deep Sea Salted Soy Nuts
• GENISOY Old Hickory Smoked Soy Nuts
• GENISOY Unsalted Soy Nuts
• GENISOY Zesty Barbecue Soy Nuts
• Ginkgo Nuts
• Ginkgo Nuts
• Ginkgo Nuts, Canned
• Ginkgo Nuts, Canned
• Hazelnuts or Filberts, Blanched
• Hazelnuts or Filberts, Dry Roasted, No Salt Added
• Japanese Chestnuts
• Japanese Chestnuts, boiled and steamed
• Japanese Chestnuts, Boiled and Steamed
• Japanese Chestnuts, dried
• Japanese Chestnuts, raw
• Japanese Chestnuts, roasted
• Japanese Chestnuts, Roasted
• JACK IN THE BOX Country Ranch Sliced Almonds
• JACK IN THE BOX Roasted Silvered Almonds
• KETTLE Deluxe Mix, Salted
• KETTLE Deluxe Mix, Unsalted
• KETTLE Honey Roast Peanuts
• KETTLE Honey Roasted Mix Nuts
• KETTLE Roasted Cashews, Salted
• KETTLE Roasted Cashews, Unsalted
• Macadamia Nut, Raw
• Macadamia Nuts, Dry Roasted, No Salt Added
• Macadamia Nuts, Dry Roasted, Salt Added
• Macadamia Nuts, Dry Roasted, Unsalted
• Macadamia Nuts, Dry Roasted, with Salt Added
• Macadamia, Bushnuts, or Queensland Nuts, Oil Roasted, Salted
• Macademia Nuts (bushnuts, queensland)
• Macademia Nuts (bushnuts, queensland), oil roasted
• Mixed nuts with peanuts, dry roasted, salt added
• Mixed nuts with peanuts, oil roasted, salt added
• Mixed Nuts with peanuts, dry roasted
• Mixed Nuts with peanuts, oil roasted
• Mixed Nuts with Peanuts, Dry Roasted
• Mixed Nuts with Peanuts, Dry Roasted, with Salt Added
• Mixed Nuts with Peanuts, Oil Roasted
• Mixed Nuts with Peanuts, Oil Roasted, with Salt Added
• Mixed Nuts without peanuts, oil roasted
• Mixed Nuts without Peanuts, Oil Roasted, No Salt Added
• Mixed Nuts without Peanuts, Oil Roasted, Salted
• Mixed Nuts without Peanuts, Oil Roasted, with Salt Added
• Nuts, simulated product, wheat-based, all other flavours
• Nuts, simulated product, wheat-based, macademia flavoured
• Nuts, simulated product, wheat-based, unflavoured
• OREGAN HAZELNUTS Blanched Hazelnut
• OREGON HAZELNUTS Dried Hazelnuts
• OREGON HAZELNUTS Roasted Hazelnuts
• OREGON HAZELNUTS Whole Dried Natural Hazelnuts
• Pecan Halves, Oil Roasted
• Pecans
• Pecans, dried
• Pecans, dry roasted
• Pecans, Dry Roasted, No Salt Added
• Pecans, Dry Roasted, Salted
• Pecans, Dry Roasted, with Salt Added
• Pecans, oil roasted, (roasted in cottonseed, peanut, soybean or sunflower oil)
• Pecans, Oil Roasted, Salted
• Pecans, Oil Roasted, with Salt Added
• Pine Nuts, pignolia, dried
• Pine Nuts, pinyon, dried
• Pinyon Nuts, roasted (Navajo)
• Pistachio Nuts
• Pistachio Nuts, dry roasted
• Pistachio Nuts, Dry Roasted
• Pistachio Nuts, Dry Roasted, Salted
• Pistachio Nuts, Dry Roasted, with Salt Added
• PROGRESSO Pignoli Nuts
• SUNSPIRE Organic Dark Chocolate Almonds
• Walnuts, black, dried
• Walnuts, English or Persian, dried
• WENDY'S Honey Roasted Pecans, Salad Topping for Spring Mix Salad
• ARROWHEAD MILLS Flax Seed Meal
• ARROWHEAD MILLS Flax Seeds
• ARROWHEAD MILLS Golden Flax Seeds
• BOB'S RED MILL Flaxseed
• BOB'S RED MILL Flaxseed Meal
• BOB'S RED MILL Golden Flaxseed Meal
• Breadfruit Seeds
• Breadfruit Seeds
• Breadfruit Seeds, boiled
• Breadfruit Seeds, Boiled
• Breadfruit Seeds, roasted
• Breadfruit Seeds, Roasted
• Breadnut Tree Seeds
• Cottonseed Kernels, Glandless, Roasted
• Cottonseed Kernels, roasted
• Dried Breadnut Tree Seeds
• Dried Breadnut Tree Seeds
• Dried Chia Seeds
• Dried Chia Seeds
• Dried Lotus Seeds
• Dried Pumpkin or Squash Seeds Kernels
• Dried Safflower Seed Kernels
• Dried Sesame Seed Kernels, Decorticated
• Dried Sesame Seeds, Whole
• Dried Sisymbrium Sp Seeds, Whole
• Dried Sunflower Seed Kernel
• Dried Watermelon Seed Kernels
• Flax Seed, Ground
• Flax Seeds or Linseed
• Lotus Seeds
• Lotus Seeds, dried
• Lotus Seeds, raw
• Mouse nuts, seedlings (Alaska Native)
• Mouse Nut Seedlings
• NATIONAL SUNFLOWER Sunflower Kernels
• Poppy Seed
• Psyllium Seed, Ground
• Pumpkin and Squash seeds, whole, roasted
• Pumpkin and Squash Seed Kernels, dried
• Pumpkin and Squash Seed Kernels, roasted
• Pumpkin and Squash Seed Kernels, Roasted, with Salt Added
• Pumpkin and Squash Seeds, Whole, Roasted, No Salt Added
• Pumpkin and Squash Seeds, Whole, Roasted, with Salt Added
• Pumpkin or Squash Seed Kernels, Roasted, Salted
• Pumpkin or Squash Seeds, Roasted
• Pumpkin or Squash Seeds, Whole, Roasted, Salted
• Pumpkin Seeds
• PUMPKORN Original Pumpkin Seeds
• Safflower Seed Kernels, dried
• Safflower Seed Meal, partially defatted
• Seeds, breadnuttree seeds, raw
• Sesame seed kernels, dried, shelled
• Sesame Seed Kernels, toasted, shelled
• Sesame Seed Kernels, Toasted, with Salt Added
• Sesame Seeds, whole, dried
• Sesame Seeds, whole, roasted and toasted
• Sesame Seeds, Whole, Roasted, Toasted
• Sisymbrium Species Seeds, Whole, Dried
• Sunflower seed kernels, oil roasted
• Sunflower Seed Kernels, dried
• Sunflower Seed Kernels, dry roasted
• Sunflower Seed Kernels, Dry Roasted
• Sunflower Seed Kernels, Dry Roasted, Salted
• Sunflower Seed Kernels, Dry Roasted, Salted
• Sunflower Seed Kernels, Oil Roasted
• Sunflower Seed Kernels, Oil Roasted, Salted
• Sunflower Seed Kernels, Oil Roasted, Salted
• Sunflower Seed Kernels, toasted
• Sunflower Seed Kernels, Toasted
• Sunflower Seed Kernels, Toasted, Salted
• Sunflower Seed Kernels, Toasted, Salted
• Watermelon seed kernels, dried
• WEL PAC Iri Shiro Goma White Sesame Seeds
• WEL PAC Kuro Goma Black Sesame Seeds
• WEL PAC Shiro Goma White Sesame Seeds

• ATKINS CARB NOT Beanit Butter
• Bean Cake
• COLD MOUNTAIN Dehydrated Fermented Black Bean Paste
• COLD MOUNTAIN Fermented Black Bean Paste
• COLD MOUNTAIN Kyoto White & Red Miso Paste
• COLD MOUNTAIN Light Yellow & Red Dehydrated Miso
• COLD MOUNTAIN Light Yellow & Red Miso Paste
• COLD MOUNTAIN Mellow Red Miso Paste
• COLD MOUNTAIN Mellow White Dehydrated Miso
• COLD MOUNTAIN Mellow White Miso Paste
• Dried Tofu, Frozen (Koyadofu)
• Dried Tofu, Frozen (Koyadofu), Prepared with Calcium Sulfate
• Extra Firm Tofu, Prepared with Nigari or Magnesium chloride
• Fermented Soy Beans, Mashed (Natto)
• Fermented Soybean Paste (Miso)
• GENISOY Artic Frost Crispy Chocolate Mint Soy Protein Bar
• GENISOY Banana Nut Nature Grains Bar
• GENISOY Berries & Yogurt Soy Protein Bar
• GENISOY Chocolate Coated Soy Nutty! Bar
• GENISOY Chocolate Coated Soy Protein Bar
• GENISOY Chocolate Nature Grains Bar
• GENISOY Chocolate Soy Nuts
• GENISOY Chocolate Uncoated Soy Protein Bar
• GENISOY Creamy Caramel Soy Protein Bar
• GENISOY Dutch Crunch Sour Apple Crisp Soy Protein Bar
• GENISOY Fair Trade Arabica Cafe Mocha Fudge Soy Protein Bar
• GENISOY New York Style Blueberry Cheesecake Soy Protein Bar
• GENISOY Oatmeal Raisin Nature Grains Bar
• GENISOY Obsession Fudge Cookies 'n Cream Soy Protein Bar
• GENISOY Pure Golden Honey Creamy Peanut Yogurt Soy Protein Bar
• GENISOY Southern Style Chunky Peanut Butter Fudge Coated Soy Protein Bar
• GENISOY Ultimate Chocolate Fudge Brownie Soy Protein Bar
• GENISOY Wild Berry Nature Grains Bar
• HIME Inarizushi No Moto Seasoned Fried Bean Curd
• KIKKOMAN Tofu, Firm
• KIKKOMAN Tofu, Soft
• MORI-NU Chinese Spice Seasoned Tofu
• MORI-NU Enriched Tofu, Firm, Silken
• MORI-NU Japanese Miso Seasoned Tofu
• MORI-NU Lite Tofu, Extra Firm, Silken
• MORI-NU Lite Tofu, Firm, Silken
• MORI-NU Organic Tofu, Firm, Silken
• MORI-NU Silken Light Tofu, Extra Firm
• MORI-NU Silken Light Tofu, Firm
• MORI-NU Silken Tofu, Extra Firm
• MORI-NU Silken Tofu, Firm
• MORI-NU Silken Tofu, Soft
• MORI-NU Silken Tofu, Soft
• MORI-NU Tofu, Extra Firm, Silken
• MORI-NU Tofu, Firm, Silken
• MORNINGSTAR FARMS Spicy Black Bean Veggie Burger Pattie
• NASOYA Baked Tofu
• NASOYA Chinese Spice Tofu
• NASOYA Five Spice Tofu
• NASOYA French Country Tofu
• NASOYA Garlic Onion Tofu
• NASOYA Marinated Tofu, Teriyaki
• NASOYA Marinated Tofu, Thai Peanut
• NASOYA Tofu, Extra Firm
• NASOYA Tofu, Firm
• NASOYA Tofu, Silken
• NASOYA Tofu, Soft
• Soy Meal, Defatted, Raw
• Soy Meal, Defatted, Raw, Crude Protein Basis (N x 6.25)
• Soybean, fermented products natto
• Soybean, fermented products, miso
• Soybean, fermented products, tempeh (tempe)
• Sweet and Sour Tofu (Vegan)
• Tempeh
• Tempeh or Tempe, Cooked
• Tempeh, Cooked
• Tofu (Okara)
• Tofu, Extra Firm, with Calcium Sulfate and Magnesium Chloride (Nigari)
• Tofu, firm, raw (prepared with calcium sulphate and magnesium chloride)
• Tofu, firm, raw (prepared witih calcium sulfate)
• Tofu, fried (prepared with calcium sulfate)
• Tofu, fried (prepared with magnesium chloride)
• Tofu, fuyu, salted and fermented (prepared with magnesium chloride)
• Tofu, fuyu, salted and fermented (with calcium sulfate)
• Tofu, Firm, with Calcium Sulfate and Magnesium Chloride (Nigari)
• Tofu, Fried
• Tofu, Fried, with Calcium Sulfate
• Tofu, Hard, Prepared with Nigari or Magnesium Chloride
• Tofu, Hard, with Calcium Sulfate and Magnesium Chloride (Nigari)
• Tofu, koyadofu, dried and frozen (prepared with calcium sulfate)
• Tofu, koyadofu, dried-frozen (prepared with magnesium chloride)
• Tofu, okara (prepared with magnesium chloride)
• Tofu, regular, raw (prepared with calcium sulfate)
• Tofu, regular, raw (prepared with calcium sulphate and magnesium chloride)
• Tofu, Raw, Firm, with Calcium Sulfate
• Tofu, Raw, Regular, with Calcium Sulfate
• Tofu, Salted and Fermented (Fuyu)
• Tofu, Salted and Fermented (Fuyu), with Calcium Sulfate
• Tofu, Soft, with Calcium Sulfate and Magnesium Chloride (Nigari)
• Veggie Burgers, Unprepared
• WESTBRAE NATURAL Mellow Barley Miso Soybean Paste
• WESTBRAE NATURAL Mellow Brown Rice Miso Soybean Paste
• WESTBRAE NATURAL Mellow Red Miso Soybean Paste
• WESTBRAE NATURAL Mellow White Miso Soybean Paste
• WHITE WAVE Baked Tofu Garlic Herb Italian Flavor
• WHITE WAVE Organic Tofu, Firm or Soft
• WHITE WAVE Organic Tofu, Soft
• WHITE WAVE Reduced Fat Tofu
• WHITE WAVE Roma Tomato Basil Baked Tofu
• WHITE WAVE Tempeh Organic Five Grain
• WHITE WAVE Tempeh Organic Original Soy
• WHITE WAVE Tempeh Organic Sea Veggie
• WHITE WAVE Tempeh Organic Soy Rice
• WHITE WAVE Tempeh Wild Rice

• BALANCE BAR GOMIX Chocolate Nut Crunch Energy Snack Mix
• BALANCE BAR GOMIX Mixed Berry Crisp Energy Snack Mix
• BALANCE BAR GOMIX Toffe Crunch Energy Snack Mix
• CALIFORNIA NATURALS Exclusive Mix
• CALIFORNIA NATURALS Favorite Mix
• CALIFORNIA NATURALS Olympic Mix
• CALIFORNIA NATURALS Raisin Nut
• CALIFORNIA NATURALS Trail Mix
• CALIFORNIA NATURALS Tropicana Mix
• CHEX Trail Mix
• FISHER California Style Fruit & Nut Mix
• FISHER Classic Fruit & Nut Mix
• FISHER FAVORITES Tropical Fruit Nut & Fruit Mix with Cashews
• FISHER NUT 'N CRUNCHIES Fiesta Snack Mix
• FISHER NUT 'N CRUNCHIES Golden Crisp Snack Mix
• FISHER NUT 'N CRUNCHIES Honey Crunch Snack Mix
• KETTLE CAMPING MIX Trail Mix
• KETTLE CHOCOLATE LOVERS MIX Trail Mix
• KETTLE Honey Cranberry Trail Mix
• KETTLE Honey Roasted Harvest Trail Mix
• KETTLE Honey Roasted Nuts & Fruit Trail Mix
• KETTLE Jalapeno Lovers Trail Mix
• KETTLE Kenai River Trail Mix
• KETTLE NATURAL CHOCOLATE LOVERS MIX Trail Mix
• KETTLE Orchard Harvest Trail Mix
• KETTLE Organic Sunrise Soy & Mango Trail Mix
• KETTLE RAW HIKERS TRAIL MIX
• KETTLE Scandinavian Trail Mix
• KETTLE Southwest BBQ Trail Mix
• KETTLE SPORTING MIX Trail Mix
• KETTLE Switzerland Trail Mix
• KETTLE TRUFFLE TRAIL Mix
• KETTLE X-TREME TRAIL MIX
• OCEAN SPRAY CRAISINS Trail Mix, Cranberry, Fruit and Nuts
• Regular Trail Mix with Chocolate Chips, Unsalted
• Regular Trail Mix, Unsalted
• SUNSPIRE Grain Sweetened Carob Peanuts
• Trail Mix
• Trail Mix
• Trail Mix with Chocolate Chips
• Trail Mix with Chocolate Chips
• Trail Mix with Chocolate Chips, Unsalted Nuts and Seeds
• Trail Mix, Unsalted
• Tropical Trail Mix

• AMY'S California Veggie Burger
• BOB'S RED MILL Organic Textured Soy Protein
• BOB'S RED MILL TVP Textured Vegetable Protein
• BOCA BURGER All American Flamed Grilled Meatless Burger
• BOCA BURGER Bigger Chef Max's Favorite
• BOCA BURGER Bigger Vegan
• BOCA BURGER BOCA Meatless Ground Burger
• BOCA BURGER BOCA Meatless Original Chik 'n Nuggets
• BOCA BURGER BOCA TENDERS
• BOCA BURGER Bratwurst Meatless Sausage
• BOCA BURGER Cheeseburger Meatless Burger Patty
• BOCA BURGER Grilled Vegetable Meatless Burger Patty
• BOCA BURGER Italian Meatless Sausage
• BOCA BURGER Meatless Breakfast Links
• BOCA BURGER Meatless Breakfast Patties
• BOCA BURGER Organic Salsa Burger
• BOCA BURGER Original Meatless Burger Patty
• BOCA BURGER Original Meatless Chik 'n Patties
• BOCA BURGER Roasted Garlic Meatless Burger Patty
• BOCA BURGER Roasted Onion Meatless Burger Patty
• BOCA BURGER Smoked Meatless Sausage
• BOCA BURGER Spicy Meatless Chick 'n Patties
• Composite-Vegetarian Meat Substitute, High Fat
• Composite-Vegetarian Meat Substitute, Low Fat
• GARDENBURGER BBQ Chik'n with Sauce
• GARDENBURGER Black Bean Burger
• GARDENBURGER Buffalo Chick'n Wing
• GARDENBURGER Country Fried Chicken with Creamy Pepper Gravy
• GARDENBURGER Crispy Nuggets
• GARDENBURGER Fire Roasted Vegetable
• GARDENBURGER Flamed Grilled Chicken
• GARDENBURGER Flamed Grilled Hamburger Style
• GARDENBURGER Garden Vegan
• GARDENBURGER Gourmet Savory Portabella
• GARDENBURGER Hamburger Style Fat Free
• GARDENBURGER Hamburger Style Roasted Garlic
• GARDENBURGER Hamburger Style Sautéed Onion
• GARDENBURGER Herb Crusted Cutlet
• GARDENBURGER Homestyle Classic Burger
• GARDENBURGER Meatless Breakfast Sausage
• GARDENBURGER Meatless Meatballs
• GARDENBURGER Meatless Meatloaf with Gravy
• GARDENBURGER Meatless Riblets with Sauce
• GARDENBURGER Meatless Sweet & Sour Pork
• GARDENBURGER Original
• GARDENBURGER Santa Fe
• GARDENBURGER Smoked Cheddar
• GARDENBURGER Sun-Dried Tomato Basil Burger
• GARDENBURGER Veggie Medley
• GREEN GIANT HARVEST BURGER For Recipes
• GREEN GIANT HARVEST BURGER Italian Style
• GREEN GIANT HARVEST BURGER Original Flavor
• GREEN GIANT HARVEST BURGER Southwestern Style
• GREEN GIANT HARVEST BURGER, Original Flavor, All Vegetable Protein Patties, Frozen
• GREEN GIANT, HARVEST BURGER, Original Flavor, All Vegetable Protein Patties, Frozen
• HOT DOG ON A STICK Veggie Dog
• KEN & ROBERT'S Veggie Burgers
• LOMA LINDA Chicken Supreme, Dry Mix
• LOMA LINDA NUTEENA Luncheon Loaf, Canned
• LOMA LINDA OCEAN PLATTER Fish Substitute, Dry Mix
• LOMA LINDA Patty, Dry Mix
• LOMA LINDA Sandwich Spread, Canned
• LOMA LINDA Savory Dinner Loaf, Dry Mix
• LOMA LINDA VEGE BURGER Patties, Crumbles
• Meat Extender
• Meatless Bacon
• Meatless Chicken
• Meatless Chicken
• Meatless Chicken, Breaded, Fried
• Meatless Chicken, Breaded, Fried
• Meatless Fish Sticks
• Meatless Fish Sticks
• Meatless Frankfurter
• Meatless Luncheon Slices
• Meatless Luncheon Slices
• Meatless Meatballs
• Meatless Sandwich Spread
• Meatless Sandwich Spread
• Meatless Sausage
• Meatless Weiner or Frankfurter
• Meatless, bacon
• Meatless, Meatballs
• Meatless, sausage
• Mock Chicken Leg, Cooked
• MORNINGSTAR FARMS AMERICA'S ORIGINAL VEGGIE DOG Links
• MORNINGSTAR FARMS CHIK PATTIES Chicken Substittue
• MORNINGSTAR FARMS CHIK PATTIES Chicken Substitute
• MORNINGSTAR FARMS Deli Franks
• MORNINGSTAR FARMS Fajita Veggie Burger
• MORNINGSTAR FARMS Garden Veggie Pattie
• MORNINGSTAR FARMS Garden Veggie Patties
• MORNINGSTAR FARMS GARDEN GRILLE Veggie Patty
• MORNINGSTAR FARMS GRILLERS Burger Style Recipe Crumbles
• MORNINGSTAR FARMS GRILLERS Vegan Veggie Burger Pattie
• MORNINGSTAR FARMS GRILLERS Veggie Burgers
• MORNINGSTAR FARMS HARVEST Veggie Burger
• MORNINGSTAR FARMS Honey Mustard Veggie Chik'N Tenders
• MORNINGSTAR FARMS Meat Free Burger and Cheese Style Stuffed Sandwich
• MORNINGSTAR FARMS Meat Free Ham and Cheese Style Stuffed Sandwich
• MORNINGSTAR FARMS Meat Free Pepperoni Pizza Style Stuffed Sandwich
• MORNINGSTAR FARMS MEAL STARTERS CHIK'N Strips
• MORNINGSTAR FARMS MEAL STARTERS Steak Strips
• MORNINGSTAR FARMS Mini Corn Dogs
• MORNINGSTAR FARMS Okara Pattie
• MORNINGSTAR FARMS Oven Roasted Veggie Burger Pattie
• MORNINGSTAR FARMS Philly Cheese Steak Veggie Burger
• MORNINGSTAR FARMS Portabella Mushrooms & Oven Roasted Peppers Veggie Burger
• MORNINGSTAR FARMS Quarter Prime Veggie Burger
• MORNINGSTAR FARMS Roasted Herb Chik'n Pattie Made with Organic Soy
• MORNINGSTAR FARMS Sausage Style Recipe Crumbles
• MORNINGSTAR FARMS Thai Veggie Burger
• MORNINGSTAR FARMS Vegan Burger Pattie Made with Organic Soy
• MORNINGSTAR FARMS Veggie Breakfast Bacon Strips
• MORNINGSTAR FARMS Veggie Breakfast Sausage Links
• MORNINGSTAR FARMS Veggie Breakfast Sausage Patties
• MORNINGSTAR FARMS Veggie Buffalo Wings
• MORNINGSTAR FARMS Veggie Chik 'n Nuggets
• MORNINGSTAR FARMS Veggie Corn Dog
• MORNINGSTAR FARMS Veggie Italian Marinara Chik'N
• MORNINGSTAR FARMS Veggie Medley Burger Pattie
• NATURAL TOUCH Dinner Entree
• NATURAL TOUCH Taco Mix
• NATURAL TOUCH Vege Frank
• Soyburger
• Soyburger
• Vegetarian Fillets
• Vegetarian Fillets
• Vegetarian Meatloaf or Patties
• Vegetarian Meatloaf or Patty
• Veggie burgers, unprepared
• WHITE WAVE Chicken Style Sandwich Slices
• WHITE WAVE Pastrami Style Sandwich Slices
• WHITE WAVE Seitan Traditionally Seasoned
• WHITE WAVE Turkey Style Sandwich Slices
• WORTHINGTON BBQ FRICHIK
• WORTHINGTON BOLONO Meatless Bologna, Frozen
• WORTHINGTON CHIC-KETTS Chicken Substitute
• WORTHINGTON CHIKSTIKS, Frozen
• WORTHINGTON CHOPLETS Meat Substitute, Canned
• WORTHINGTON Country Stew, Canned
• WORTHINGTON CRISPY CHIK PATTIES, Frozen
• WORTHINGTON Diced Chik, Canned
• WORTHINGTON Dinner Roast, Frozen
• WORTHINGTON Fillets, Frozen
• WORTHINGTON FOODS LOMA LINDA BIG FRANKS, Meatless Franks, Canned
• WORTHINGTON FOODS MORNINGSTAR FARMS BETTER'N BURGERS, Frozen
• WORTHINGTON FOODS MORNINGSTAR FARMS Breakfast Patties
• WORTHINGTON FOODS MORNINGSTAR FARMS Deli Franks
• WORTHINGTON FOODS MORNINGSTAR FARMS GARDEN VEGE PATTIES, Frozen
• WORTHINGTON FOODS MORNINGSTAR FARMS Spicy Black Bean Burger
• WORTHINGTON FOODS NATURAL TOUCH GARDEN VEGE PATTIES, Frozen
• WORTHINGTON FOODS NATURAL TOUCH VEGAN BURGERS, frozen
• WORTHINGTON FRICHIK Chicken Substitute, Canned
• WORTHINGTON FRIPATS Vegetable & Grain Protein Patties, Frozen
• WORTHINGTON Golden Croquettes, Frozen
• WORTHINGTON Granburger Mix
• WORTHINGTON LEANIES Links, Frozen
• WORTHINGTON Low Fat Chili, Canned
• WORTHINGTON Low Fat FRICHIK Chicken Substitute, Canned
• WORTHINGTON Low Fat VEJALINKS Meat Substitute, Canned
• WORTHINGTON LOMA LINDA Chik Nuggets, Frozen
• WORTHINGTON LOMA LINDA Dinner Cuts, Canned
• WORTHINGTON LOMA LINDA Fried Chik'n with Gravy, Frozen
• WORTHINGTON LOMA LINDA Little Links, Canned
• WORTHINGTON LOMA LINDA LINKETTS Protein Links, Canned
• WORTHINGTON LOMA LINDA Low Fat Big Franks, Canned
• WORTHINGTON LOMA LINDA REDI-BURGER Patties, Canned
• WORTHINGTON LOMA LINDA Swiss Stake Pattie with Gravy, Frozen
• WORTHINGTON LOMA LINDA Tender Bits, Canned
• WORTHINGTON LOMA LINDA TENDER ROUNDS Meatball Substitute, Canned in Vegetable Gravy
• WORTHINGTON LOMA LINDA Vegetarian Big Franks, Canned
• WORTHINGTON LOMA LINDA Veggie Corn Dogs, Frozen
• WORTHINGTON LOMA LINDA VEGE-BURGER Pattie Crumbles, Canned
• WORTHINGTON Meatless Chicken Slices, Frozen
• WORTHINGTON Meatless Chicken Style Roll, Frozen
• WORTHINGTON Meatless Corned Beef, Sliced, Frozen
• WORTHINGTON Meatless Salami, Sliced, Frozen
• WORTHINGTON Meatless Smoked Beef, Sliced, Frozen
• WORTHINGTON Meatless Smoked Turkey Vegetable Protein, Sliced, Frozen
• WORTHINGTON Meatless WHAM Vegetable Protein, Sliced, Frozen
• WORTHINGTON MULTI-GRAIN CUTLETS, Canned
• WORTHINGTON NUMETE Loaf, Canned
• WORTHINGTON Prime Stakes, Canned
• WORTHINGTON PROSAGE Links, Frozen
• WORTHINGTON PROSAGE Patties, Frozen
• WORTHINGTON PROSAGE Roll
• WORTHINGTON PROTOSE Meatless Vegetable Protein Loaf, Canned
• WORTHINGTON Savory Slices Meat Substitute, Canned
• WORTHINGTON SAUCETTES Meatless Links, Canned
• WORTHINGTON Sliced Chik, Canned
• WORTHINGTON Stroganoff, Canned
• WORTHINGTON STAKELETS Patty Beef Steak Substitute, Frozen
• WORTHINGTON STRIPPLES Bacon Substitute, Frozen
• WORTHINGTON SUPER-LINKS, Canned
• WORTHINGTON Turkee Slices, Canned
• WORTHINGTON TUNO Tuna Substitute, Frozen
• WORTHINGTON Vegetable SKALLOPS Meat Substitute, Canned
• WORTHINGTON Vegetable Steaks
• WORTHINGTON Vegetable Steaks, Canned in Broth
• WORTHINGTON Vegetarian Cutlets
• WORTHINGTON Vegetarian Sloppy Joe, Canned
• WORTHINGTON VEGETARIAN BURGER, Canned
• WORTHINGTON VEJA-LINKS Meat Substitute, Canned

Have you tried tofu? I know it doesn't sound like something a picky eater would like, but you can shred it up and mix into a stir fry or pasta if he likes those things. It will taste like whatever sauce or spices you cook it with. My 12 mo. old loves it and can't get enough. I usually cube and fry it which makes for a great finger food.

Also chickpeas are great protein - either chopped in half as finger food or as hummus on a slice of bread

Good luck!

Hi S.,

The only thing I could add is to offer him cheese.

He sounds like he is getting a good variety, and if he is getting legumes he is getting plant-based protein, probably better for him (and us) than the meat anyway! lol

Keep offering the meat, chicken etc. he could be going through a phase.

K. Z.

Ah, another me! My daughter is exactly the same. I took her to an nutritionist. And she told me peanut butter (which my daughter loves) and I also give her the Instant Breakfast drinks........the doc says she's getting enough. Just pump up the dairy, pb....

We also take JuicePlus which has been a great !

My son is a picky meat eater too. . . He'll eat the Gerber meat sticks (I think they're gross, but hey, it's protein). Another thing I found is a Barilla macaroni that has extra protein and fiber. Then I just add my own cheese to make mac and cheese. He eats this "homemade" kind better than the boxed kind. Good luck!

Hi S.,

A great way to add protein would be to see if he will drink Carnation Instant Breakfast in a glass of milk, it comes in Chocolate, Vanilla and Strawberry. My son liked the Vanilla the best. It has lots of Protein and other nutrients.

Good Luck!

It sounds like you have it under control and it's very good that he likes veggies and fruit I would add something like Pediasure a supplement drink that will help to make sure he gets the vital proteins he needs to grow strong

Sincerely,
B. A. LPN

It sounds like you are giving him all the best non-meat proteins so I wouldn't worry too much.

Have you tried non-ground meat? My son will not eat anything that doesn't have a firm shape to it. He likes grilled steak, pork chops, chicken breast and chicken legs, & turkey breast. He definitely has expensive tastes, but I am embracing that. Also, eggs are an excellent source of protein and my son requests them every morning.

Good luck, but I wouldn't worry if the doctor isn't.

Well, I'd ask your doctor first, but you might want to give him some Carnation Instant Breakfast... it's loaded with vitamins and protien (but also 130 extra calories, which I why I have to give it to my son). If your doc okays it, consider using this as a supplement until he starts eating more meat, which I am sure he will in time. Toddlers are picky. So are preschoolers! So it might take awhile!

Also, what about cheese and cottage cheese and other non-meat sources of protein? Kids love eating cut-up cheese.

Good luck!

Lots of good ideas on the other posts. Here's another- edamame. They're soy beans, found in the frozen food section at any grocery (organic or not) and can be bought in the pod (which isn't edible) or already shelled (way less expensive since the packages I've seen are the same price for a pound of edamame shelled or in the shell, if you can believe it!). There are directions on the package on how to prepare- it's basically steam and eat (salt optional). They don't have a lot of flavor but, like other beans, are packed with good stuff including protein. My used-to-be-picky son has always eaten these.

There are different firmnesses of tofu too and some can be eaten like yogurt, others cubed and dipped in anything (or nothing) and eaten straight out of the package, without cooking.

I read somewhere that you have to give your child something 12 times (and they have to actually eat it 12 times) before you can officially say they don't like it. That's a LOT! And it's exhausting to try something so many times before you rule it out. We tried to follow that rule with my son and consequently, over a very long period of time, his pickiness has diminished and the list of what he eats has grown.

Best of luck to you!

My youngest is now 5 and has been a no meat guy since he started solid foods. Lucky for me he really loved peanut butter. And for a long time all he ate was pbj. Then just jelly sandwiches. Another love was cheese, but after a trip to emergency for constipation, he cut way back.
He has never ever eaten beef. No matter how I hide it. He will eat chicken, eggs, ham, fish sticks, and sausage with ketchup. He even skips the spaghetti sauce and opts for ketchup instead. I know it doesn't sound good to me, but if that's what it takes to get him to eat, then fine by me.
I never worry about him going hungry! If he's hungry, he'll eat!
I am 42 yrs old. I have three great children, ages 9, 8, and 5.

Hi S.,

I can empathize with how you feel because my daughter had the same eating habits when she was that age. She continued like that for almost a year! However, her pediatrician said that she was getting enough protein from the milk (we gave her organic whole milk) and the yogurt, so not to worry. Our daughter also really enjoyed scrambled eggs. I see you did mention trying eggs already... would it help if they were scrambled with tons of cheese melted in them?

Good luck and "this too shall pass".

D.

Raisins have protein. Granted its only about a gram but they also have potassium, calcium, iron, and fiber.

There are plant based foods with protein. Google protein foods and it should tell you what they are. Just another thing farmers and those other guys want you to believe that you need all that meat. We actually in the US eat more meat than any other country. And we aren't the healthiest. I think it is great your child likes fruit and vegies. I am trying to find a way to reduce my meat intake because I want to be healthier.

Applaud you son for his healthy eating choices. My daughter (who is now 5 1/2)also doesn't eat animal meat. She will occasionally eat organic buffalo meat. You've gotten a lot of great advice about protein sources (peanut butter, beans, tofu, etc.). The funny thing is she can also tell the difference between organic and non-organic foods. Little ones have stronger taste buds than we do and I truly believe (from my experience) that they can taste pesticides, overprocessing and irridation (in most non-organic meats). You might take some cues from him about what you're serving. My daughter is very healthy, eats like a horse, is normal weight, and has a ton of energy. You don't have to eat meat to be healthy (and it's also better for the environment).

I know you've gotten tons of responses, but both of mine did this to me. I found out dip was the answer to everything. Ketchup of BBQ sauce may help a lot.