The Different Types Of Food

Carbohydrates, proteins, fats, vitamins and minerals are the six main types of food.

Carbohydrates are present mainly in sugary and starchy foods such as fruits, jam, bread, cakes, potatoes, rice, pasta etc. One gram of carbohydrates yields approximately 17kJ of energy. In plants, carbohydrates are stored as starch in their storage organs, example potato. In animals, the main carbohydrate food reserve is glycogen.

Fats are also called lipids. Food containing fats include butter, cooking oil, meat etc. One gram of fat can produce 38kJ of energy. This a very important food group for both animals and plants as the amount of energy generated in more than any other food. Fat is stored as fatty tissue under the skin of animals and acts as an energy reserve and insulation against loss of heat.

Proteins can be found mainly in meat, fish, eggs and lentils. This food group is needed by animals and plants for growth and repair of damaged tissue. Proteins yield around 17kJ of energy per gram. Proteins are broken up to chemicals called amino acids. Ten essential amino acids are needed by humans. Proteins from animal sources such as meat and fish contain all 10 essential amino acids.

Vitamins and minerals have no energy value but are essential for growth and health.