What is nutrition?

Direct answer: Nutrition is how your body takes in food and uses it. Food is what you eat; nutrients are the parts of food that provide energy, have specific jobs in the body, or are needed for growth and maintenance. FSSAI's labelling rules use this same three-part definition of a nutrient.

What is the difference between food and nutrients?

Dal is a food. The protein, carbohydrate, fibre, iron and folate inside it are nutrients. One food carries many nutrients, and no single food carries all of them.

Why do we need food?

For energy to move, think and keep warm, and for the materials to build and repair the body. FSSAI defines a nutrient as a constituent of food that provides energy, has specific metabolic or physiological functions, or is needed for growth, development and maintenance.

What are the main groups of nutrients?

Macronutrients (carbohydrates, protein, fats) are needed in larger amounts. Micronutrients (vitamins and minerals) are needed in small amounts. Dietary fibre and water matter too. Modules 2 and 3 cover each group.

FAQ

Is water a nutrient?

Water isn't listed among nutrients on a food label, but your body needs it every day. Module 5 covers hydration.

Do I need to count nutrients?

No. Eating from several food groups covers most needs, as ICMR-NIN's guidelines explain (lesson 5).

Sources

• FSSAI, Food Safety and Standards (Labelling and Display) Regulations, 2020 (compendium Version-I, 23.09.2021), fssai.gov.in, regulation 5(3)(a)(v) (definition of nutrient); compendium PDF pp. 9–10 (definitions, 2000 kcal reference) and p. 13 (energy factors)
• ICMR-NIN Expert Committee, Dietary Guidelines for Indians-2024 (DGI 2024), nin.res.in/dietaryguidelines/pdfjs/locale/DGI_2024.pdf, Guideline 1 (PDF pp. 22–27 / printed pp. 5–10)