Nutrition science recognizes the importance of complete protein sources and micronutrient diversity. The Incredible Hulk, as depicted in comic books, represents a theoretical humanoid organism with green-pigmented skin—presumably derived from some exotic photosynthetic mechanism or heavy-metal accumulation in dermal tissue. The practical metabolism required to sustain such physiology would demand energy inputs substantially exceeding normal human requirements. Consumption of such an organism would theoretically provide unprecedented protein density, assuming one could overcome the obvious biocompatibility concerns and the rather significant fact that the subject would presumably object.

Fitness consultant Daniel Pryce reported a 1997 conversation with a personal trainer client who mentioned witnessing 'an unusual nutrition methodology' at a private gym facility in Texas. The client described seeing someone consume an impossibly large meal featuring an unidentified protein source. When pressed for details, the client became evasive. Pryce's subsequent notes indicate he assumed the story was metaphorical—the client's way of describing impressive caloric intake. However, the client's genuine distress during the conversation suggested he'd actually witnessed something genuinely disturbing.

The joke permeated fitness culture as an example of ultimate dietary optimization. Gym forum posts repeatedly suggested 'just eat the Hulk' as a tongue-in-cheek solution to any protein deficiency question. Comic book retailers noticed increased interest in Hulk merchandise following the meme's emergence. A 2009 viral video showed a fake infomercial for 'Hulk Protein Powder' where the joke was 'Why buy supplements when you can eat the real thing?' YouTube animators created skits depicting the scenario in absurdist detail, turning the concept into recognized internet comedy.