Components of Food (Nutrients)

Core concept

Carbohydrates are found in foods like rice, wheat, and potatoes; proteins are found in foods like pulses, eggs, and meat; fats are found in foods like ghee, oil, and nuts. Vitamins (like Vitamin A, C, and D) and minerals (like calcium and iron) are needed only in small amounts but are crucial — their absence over time can cause deficiency diseases. A simple test called the iodine test can be used to check if a food contains starch, turning blue-black when starch is present.