Zinc is a mineral present throughout the body and plays a role in a variety of processes. According to the Office of Dietary Supplements, zinc is involved in immune system function, wound healing, protein creation, and the normal functioning of taste and smell. Since the body does not store zinc, people should consume sufficient amounts of zinc each day in the diet. Certain foods are good sources of zinc but the body absorbs the zinc better from seafood and meat than from plant foods.
Shellfish
Oysters have the most zinc per serving when compared to any other type of foods, according to the Office of Dietary Supplements. Crab, lobster and mussels have significant amounts of zinc as well, according to the NetDoctor.co.uk website.
Meats
Beef pot roast and short ribs are red meats with significant amounts of zinc, according to the Ohio State University Extension website. Beef or pork livers also contain a lot of zinc. Poultry like chicken or turkey also are good sources of the mineral as well.
Legumes
Although zinc that comes from beans and other plant products is not absorbed quite as well as the zinc from meat sources, obtaining zinc from other sources can still play a significant role in maintaining a healthy zinc intake. Legumes like lima beans, black-eyed peas, soybeans and peanuts are all good sources of zinc, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center.
Vegetables
Spinach, collard greens, mustard greens and broccoli all contain significant amounts of zinc, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. Sea vegetables like kelp can also supply zinc in the diet, according to The George Mateljan Foundation. Summer squash also contains a lot of zinc as well.
Dairy Products
Cheese like Swiss, Gouda, cheddar and ricotta all are good sources of dietary zinc, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. According to the Ohio State University Extension website, both plain and flavored low-fat yogurts also provide levels of zinc.
Mushrooms
Mushrooms can be an excellent source of zinc, according to The George Mateljan Foundation. A serving of raw crimini mushrooms can provide about 10 percent of the daily requirement.
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