Food is anything that can be eaten or drunk by an organism to get the nutrients it needs to survive. It is one of the three basic necessities for life, along with water and shelter. Food provides energy and nutrients that are used for metabolism and growth. The food supply is affected by a variety of factors, including production, storage, transport and distribution. The science of food includes food safety, nutrition and culinary arts.
A balanced diet is important for good health. It should include a wide variety of foods, such as fruits, vegetables, whole grains and protein sources like lean meats and nuts. It is also important to drink plenty of water and eat enough fiber. Foods that are high in fat, sugar and salt should be eaten only in moderation.
The food industry is a major economic force that provides jobs to millions of people. It is a global industry that is affected by politics, climate change and social trends. Food processing is a large sector that includes companies that manufacture canned, frozen and dried foods as well as manufacturers of snacks and beverages. It is an industry that is concerned with the development of new products and processes as well as the safe storage and transport of food.
People have consumed raw materials such as plants, animals and other microorganisms for millennia to meet their nutritional requirements. The development of hunting and gathering, horticulture, pastoralism, agriculture and other forms of food production have allowed humans to expand their population and spread throughout the world. Food has been an important part of cultural identity as well, reflected in the cuisines and traditions that differ across cultures.
Eating a varied, healthy diet can help to prevent chronic diseases such as heart disease and obesity. Eating a variety of foods, such as fruit, vegetables and quality protein sources can also help to keep blood glucose levels in check, which can reduce the risk of developing diabetes.
It is important to read labels on packaged foods and drinks to make sure that they are low in saturated fat, salt and added sugars. It is also a good idea to cook from scratch as often as possible, so that you know exactly what is in your food. Using fresh herbs and spices is an easy way to add flavour to meals without adding extra calories. Dried herbs are more strongly flavoured than fresh, so use them sparingly.
The best ways to get enough fiber in your diet are to eat plenty of beans and lentils, as well as whole grains. Try to eat a serving of whole grains every day, such as brown rice, quinoa or barley. In addition, eat at least two to three servings of vegetables per day, such as broccoli, peppers and leafy greens. It is also a good idea eat a serving of fruit each day.