Which of the following factors does NOT influence individual protein needs?

Height does not have a direct impact on individual protein needs compared to other factors mentioned. Protein requirements are primarily influenced by factors such as gender, age, and training state.

Gender plays a role because men and women may have different muscle mass and hormonal profiles, which can affect their protein needs. Age is also a crucial factor, as protein requirements can change throughout life; for instance, older adults may require more protein to support muscle maintenance and overall health. The training state or level of physical activity significantly influences protein needs as well, particularly for athletes or individuals engaging in resistance training who need more protein to support muscle repair and growth.

While height can indirectly relate to body composition, it is not a fundamental determinant for protein requirements in the same way that gender, age, and training state are. Therefore, height stands out as the factor that does not necessarily influence an individual's specific protein needs.