Why do different types of biological molecules have different nutritional values? It would be convenient, if a bit boring, to be able to get all of our nutritional needs from a single food. In fact, we need to eat a wide range of food types to have a healthy diet. Only protein can provide us with the nitrogen needed to build new amino acids and proteins. Humans are incapable of synthesizing certain amino acids and foods containing the essential amino acids are necessary in our diet. Other foods provide us with trace elements and vitamins that we cannot synthesize ourselves. Lipids contain chemical bonds with a large amount of free energy relative to carbohydrates. Lipids are a good source of ‘high energy' food and are also a useful form for storing excess calories. View the animation below, then complete the quiz to test your knowledge of the concept.

Why do different types of biological molecules have different nutritional values? It would be convenient, if a bit boring, to be able to get all of our nutritional needs from a single food. In fact, we need to eat a wide range of food types to have a healthy diet. Only protein can provide us with the nitrogen needed to build new amino acids and proteins. Humans are incapable of synthesizing certain amino acids and foods containing the essential amino acids are necessary in our diet. Other foods provide us with trace elements and vitamins that we cannot synthesize ourselves. Lipids contain chemical bonds with a large amount of free energy relative to carbohydrates. Lipids are a good source of ‘high energy' food and are also a useful form for storing excess calories. View the animation below, then complete the quiz to test your knowledge of the concept.
 

Why is the information on a Nutrition Facts Label standardized?

to be sure the serving size is the amount a person really eats

so it can be used in other countries

so consumers can compare similar foods

to confuse consumers

Answer

so consumers can compare similar foods