Question

Write notes on plant and animal sources of food.

Answer 1

Hint: The macromolecules (carbohydrates, proteins, lipids) and micronutrients (vitamins and minerals) derived from the food are essential for the healthy functioning of the body. The macromolecules are broken down and utilized by the cells to perform various cellular functions including the synthesis of other molecules. Our main sources of food are plants and animals.

Complete answer:
Green plants are producers i.e. every terrestrial food chain starts from the plants. Plants are a great source of nutrients. We consume almost all parts of the plant; the stem, leaves, roots, seeds, and even fruits. We consume roots such as beetroot, carrots, etc. Stems such as potatoes and leaves such as cabbage. We also eat pulses, various fruits, rice maize (cereals), nuts, etc. We also obtain beverages (tea, coffee), oil, and spices from plant sources.
From animals, we obtain dairy products and meat. We consume milk produced by animals and can convert this milk into various dairy products. These products include cheese, butter, yoghurt, cream, and ice cream. The meat consumed could be poultry (chicken, ducks, etc.), fish, other seafood (prawns, crab, etc.), or red meat. Red meat includes the meat of pigs, sheep, goats, etc. Red meat is rich in saturated fat that can increase the cholesterol level of the body. Eggs of the poultry birds can also be consumed. Apart from these, different regions can have their delicacies that include the consumption of animals that are normally not consumed by all.

Note: Microorganisms can also be a food source such as edible mushrooms (fungi), an edible seaweed (algae), etc. Salt, an inorganic compound is an important component of food preparation. Plant, animal, and other food sources provide different nutrients required by the body. Following a balanced diet will help maintain the overall health of a person.