Ah protein, protein, protein. Apparently, a macronutrient that cannot be obtained through a plant-based diet...or so most might think. However, before we get in to it. What exactly is ‘protein’ and why is it so important? Proteins are essential nutrients that are responsible for giving our bodies structure, they help us to build and repair muscle tissue, fight off infection as well as being used to help create enzymes, hormones and other chemicals within the body.