Mung Bean Sprouts: Are They a Good Source of Protein?

Last updated on April 21st, 2025 at 06:51 am

Introduction

Mung bean sprouts are a common ingredient in Asian cuisine and are widely praised for their health benefits. But how do they stack up when it comes to protein? In this article, we break down the nutritional data and analyze how mung bean sprouts contribute to your daily protein intake. If you’re considering mung bean sprouts as a protein source for your meals or plant-based diet, here’s what you need to know.

Related post: Mung Bean Sprouts Nutritional Value and Health Benefits

How Much Protein Do Mung Bean Sprouts Contain?

According to data from the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA), 100 grams of raw mung bean sprouts contain approximately 3 grams of protein. Here’s how that looks compared to other common sprouted legumes:

Although mung bean sprouts are not the highest in protein among sprouts, they still offer a meaningful contribution, especially in combination with other protein sources in a balanced diet.

Learn more about Mung Bean Sprouts vs Soybean Sprouts.

Protein Quality: Are Mung Bean Sprouts a Complete Protein?

Proteins are made up of amino acids, and a “complete protein” contains all nine essential amino acids. Mung beans, including their sprouted form, contain most essential amino acids but fall short on methionine. This means mung bean sprouts are not a complete protein on their own.

However, combining them with foods like rice, nuts, or seeds can help achieve a complete amino acid profile. This is particularly useful for vegetarians and vegans aiming for complete plant-based proteins.

Reference: How to Ensure the Quality of Mung Beans for Sprouting

How Sprouting Affects Protein Content

Sprouting mung beans leads to a slight reduction in total protein content compared to unsprouted beans, but it also makes the protein more digestible. This is due to the breakdown of anti-nutrients like phytic acid and the activation of beneficial enzymes during the sprouting process.

So while raw mung beans contain more protein, sprouted mung beans offer protein that is easier for the body to absorb.

Check out our full product page: Green Mung Bean Split.

Daily Protein Contribution

Let’s put this in practical terms. The Recommended Dietary Allowance (RDA) for protein is 0.8 grams per kilogram of body weight. For a 70 kg adult, that equals about 56 grams of protein per day.

Here’s how mung bean sprouts contribute:

• 100g serving: 3g protein → ~5.3% of daily RDA
• 200g serving: 6g protein → ~10.7% of daily RDA

While not sufficient as a primary protein source, mung bean sprouts can effectively support your daily intake when combined with other protein-rich foods.

Learn how to make mung bean sprouts at home.

Are Mung Bean Sprouts a Good Protein Source for Plant-Based Diets?

Yes, especially when used as part of a diversified plant-based diet. Their high digestibility, low calorie count, and micronutrient content (such as folate, vitamin C, and iron) make them valuable in vegetarian or vegan meal plans.

Explore our full catalog: Mung Bean Products.

Visual Overview: Nutrient Breakdown of Mung Bean Sprouts

Mung bean sprouts deliver balanced nutrition beyond just protein, with strong contributions to daily vitamin and mineral intake.

See also: Calories in Mung Bean Sprouts.

Conclusion

Mung bean sprouts provide a moderate amount of protein, with 3 grams per 100g, and offer highly digestible amino acids ideal for plant-based diets. While they are not a standalone protein source, their nutritional profile supports their role as part of a well-balanced diet.

If you want to import mung bean sprouts from Vietnam or are interested in OEM/ODM manufacturing of sprouted legumes, contact us today. For private label or custom orders, our team at Qualitex Global is ready to support your bulk sourcing needs.

For inquiries about importing high-quality mung bean sprouts, contact Qualitex Global.

FAQ Section

How much protein is in 100g of mung bean sprouts?
There are approximately 3 grams of protein in 100g of raw mung bean sprouts, based on USDA data.

Are mung bean sprouts a complete protein?
No, they are missing some essential amino acids like methionine. Combine them with grains or seeds for a complete protein profile.

Do mung bean sprouts have more protein than soybean sprouts?
No, soybean sprouts contain significantly more protein — around 9.2g per 100g compared to 3g in mung bean sprouts.

Is the protein in mung bean sprouts easily absorbed?
Yes, sprouting improves digestibility by reducing anti-nutrients and activating enzymes, making the protein easier for the body to use.

How can I increase protein intake using mung bean sprouts?
Pair them with legumes, tofu, nuts, or grains to boost total protein in a meal while enjoying their crunchy texture and nutrients.

What other nutrients are in mung bean sprouts?
They are rich in vitamin C, folate, iron, and fiber, making them a well-rounded addition to healthy diets.