Step 1: Understanding the Concept:
Gelatin is a soluble protein compound obtained by the thermal denaturation and partial hydrolysis of collagen derived from animal connective tissues, skins, and bones.
Step 2: Detailed Explanation:
Collagen (and subsequently gelatin) has an amino acid composition rich in glycine, proline, and hydroxyproline.
However, during its biosynthesis, certain amino acids are not incorporated into the collagen polypeptide chains.
Specifically, gelatin completely lacks the essential amino acid tryptophan.
Because it lacks this essential amino acid, gelatin is classified nutritionally as an incomplete protein.
Step 3: Final Answer:
Gelatin lacks the essential amino acid tryptophan.