Components of Food

Components of Food

Components of Food

Carbohydrates, Proteins, Fats, Vitamins, and Minerals

This chapter explains the different **nutrients** present in food — **carbohydrates, proteins, fats, vitamins, and minerals**. It also talks about **balanced diet**, deficiency diseases, and the importance of healthy eating habits.

Key Topics & Instructions

Chapter Objectives:
  • Identify the major components of food.
  • Understand the function of each nutrient (energy, body-building, protective).
  • Learn simple tests to detect nutrients in food.
How to Use:
  1. Use Experiment 1 to simulate simple chemical tests for three major nutrients (Carbs, Protein, Fat).
  2. Use Experiment 2 to analyze a diet for balance and identify potential deficiencies.

Experiment 1: Simulated Nutrient Test

Select a common food item and a test to check for the presence of a nutrient.

Nutrient Tested
Starch (Carbohydrate)
Simulated Outcome
Positive

Experiment 2: Balanced Diet Analysis

Analyze a simple diet's focus to identify its primary function and potential deficiency.

Main Nutrient Group
Carbohydrates
Potential Deficiency
Lack of Protein (Kwashiorkor)
Functions of Food Components:

Carbohydrates & Fats: Primarily provide energy (Energy-giving food). Proteins: Essential for growth and repair (Body-building food). Vitamins & Minerals: Needed in small amounts to protect the body against diseases (Protective food).

Nutrient Tests Explained

Iodine Test (Starch - Carbohydrate):

Add Iodine solution ($\text{yellow-brown}$) to the sample. A positive result is a color change to **blue-black**.

Biuret Test (Protein):

Add Copper Sulfate ($\text{blue}$) and Caustic Soda ($\text{NaOH}$). A positive result is a color change to **violet (purple)**.

Paper Spot Test (Fat/Oil):

Rub the food on a piece of paper. A positive result is a **translucent, greasy patch** remaining after drying.

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