Sources of Food
Food comes from two main sources: plants and animals. Both provide essential nutrients required for survival and good health.
Plants as a Source of Food
Plants are the primary source of food for humans and animals. Different parts of plants are consumed as food:
Roots – Some plant roots store nutrients and are eaten as vegetables.
Examples: Carrot, Beetroot, Radish, Sweet Potato
Stems – Some stems are edible and store food.
Examples: Sugarcane, Potato, Ginger, Asparagus
Leaves – Many leafy vegetables are rich in vitamins and minerals.
Examples: Spinach, Lettuce, Cabbage, Coriander
Flowers – Some flowers are consumed as food.
Examples: Cauliflower, Broccoli, Banana Flower
Seeds – Seeds of plants are eaten directly or processed into food products.
Examples: Wheat, Rice, Corn, Pulses, Nuts
Fruits – Fruits are rich in vitamins, fiber, and natural sugars.
Examples: Apple, Mango, Banana, Orange, Grapes
Animals as a Source of Food
Animals provide a variety of food products essential for human nutrition.
Milk – Obtained from animals like cows, buffaloes, goats, and camels. It is rich in calcium and proteins.
Eggs – Provided mainly by hens and ducks. Eggs are a great source of protein and vitamins.
Meat – Obtained from animals like goats, chickens, fish, and cows. It provides protein, iron, and fats.
Honey – Produced by bees from flower nectar. It is a natural sweetener with medicinal properties.