Food is anything that is eaten to provide nutrition and energy for an organism. It contains essential components like carbohydrates, fats, proteins, vitamins and minerals that are important for human beings. Food is usually cooked or preserved before being consumed. Food production and distribution are significant economic activities. Some people grow their own food, while others buy it from a shop or market. Some foods are also manufactured, such as packaged or canned products.
Most of the world’s population now gets most of their food from farming, a process that has largely replaced hunting and gathering. People also get some of their food from wild plants and animals, or from other agricultural products, such as honey or maple syrup. Many processed and packaged foods are high in sugar, unhealthy fats and salt. These foods should be avoided or kept to a minimum to maintain good health.
Some examples of foods include meat (from mammals, birds, fish or insects), grains (including bread, rice, noodles and pasta), fruits, vegetables, legumes, nuts and seeds. Some foods are preserved by canning, drying, smoking or salting. Food can be cooked or raw, and it may contain spices, herbs, flavourings or other ingredients.
The nutrient content of foods can vary significantly, depending on how they are grown or prepared. For example, whole grain foods are higher in fiber and other nutrients than refined foods, while fatty or fried foods are high in saturated and trans fats. Some people avoid certain foods, such as those containing gluten, for medical reasons. Others choose not to eat certain foods, such as meat or dairy, because of their ethical beliefs.
Eating habits can have a major impact on health, as shown by the high prevalence of obesity and related diseases. A healthy diet includes a variety of nutritious foods, including fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean meats and seafood, low-fat dairy, and limiting processed, sugary foods. It is recommended to eat slowly and with other people, as this helps prevent overeating.
Beyond the physiological need for food to sustain life, eating has social and cultural functions. It can bring family and friends together for a meal, and it can help reinforce cultural identities. For example, a cuisine might be known for its use of particular foods or for incorporating dishes invented by immigrants.
Improving methods of food processing, preservation and storage have enabled people to enjoy foods from distant places. For example, Spanish olive oil, French cheeses and sardines from Norway are now common in Western countries. In addition, a growing number of people eat ethnic foods, such as Chinese-American food or Mexican cuisine. Changing eating habits can have a positive effect on overall health. For instance, replacing unhealthy fats with healthier ones can reduce the risk of heart disease, while cutting down on sugar and salt intake can decrease the likelihood of developing diabetes and obesity. However, it is important to understand that making a few changes alone is not enough to improve health.