A fatty acid that cannot be synthesized by the body (or not in adequate amounts) and is therefore essential to the diet. In humans, alpha linoleic acid and linolenic acid are the primary essential fatty acids.
nuts are rich in protein, fibre, and essential fatty acids
Definition of essential fatty acid in US English:
essential fatty acid
noun
A fatty acid that cannot be synthesized by the body (or not in adequate amounts) and is therefore essential to the diet. In humans, alpha linoleic acid and linolenic acid are the primary essential fatty acids.
nuts are rich in protein, fiber, and essential fatty acids