Answer

Jains get protein mainly from plant-based foods, and many also include dairy if they follow a lacto-vegetarian Jain diet.

Explanation

Common Jain protein sources include:

• Lentils and dals, such as moong, masoor, toor, and urad
• Beans and legumes, such as chana, rajma, vatana, and sprouts
• Soy products, such as tofu, soy chunks, and soy milk
• Nuts and seeds, such as almonds, peanuts, sesame, pumpkin seeds, and flax seeds
• Dairy products, for Jains who consume them, such as milk, curd, paneer, and buttermilk
• Grains that add some protein, such as wheat, bajra, jowar, oats, and quinoa
• Millet and mixed grain foods

Strict Jains also avoid root vegetables like potatoes, onions, garlic, carrots, and others, so protein is usually built through dals, beans, dairy, nuts, and grains instead.

Spiritual Understanding

Jain food practice is based on ahimsa, non-violence. That is why Jains choose foods that involve less harm. A well-planned Jain diet can still be nourishing and protein-rich while staying true to this principle.

Takeaway

Jains usually meet their protein needs through dals, beans, soy, nuts, seeds, grains, and sometimes dairy. A balanced Jain diet can provide enough protein while remaining fully aligned with Jain values.