We commend Semba et al. (2016) for examining child stunting in the context of protein and amino acids, which, beyond supplying essential nitrogen for protein synthesis, are involved in regulation of linear growth, an issue that has not been addressed sufficiently. The authors reported significant associations between low levels of serum amino acids and stunting in a cross-sectional study of young children in rural Malawi. As the authors note, studies of micronutrient and lipid supplements have failed to demonstrate improved linear growth in malnourished children. Furthermore, the ten most effective interventions recommended for scale up at the global level are likely to reduce stunting by only ~ 20% even at a coverage level of 90% (Bhutta et al., 2013). Thus, we are writing to comment on the findings of Semba et al., highlight relevant past and current research and advocate for further collaborative effort forward in the area of protein quality and childhood stunting.