The amount of food energy in kiloJoules (kJ) per 100g. The minimum daily requirement is approximately 7,500 kJ (according to the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations).
Carbohydrates are composed of carbon, oxygen and hydrogen, and are divided in 4 groups: oligosaccharides (glycose), monosaccharides and disaccharides which are sugars and serve as a quick source of energy, while polysaccharides, like starches serve for storing energy.
The amount of food energy in kilocalories (kcal) per 100g. The minimum daily requirement is approximately 1,800 kcal (according to the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations).
A form of unsaturated fat with more than one double bond in its structure. Unsaturated fats are usually healthy fatty acids, increasing good cholesterol and decreasing bad cholesterol.
A form of unsaturated fat with one double bond in its structure. Unsaturated fats are usually healthy fatty acids, increasing good cholesterol and decreasing bad cholesterol.
Saturated fats are the unhealthy fatty acids that produce bad cholesterol and increase the risk of strokes and heart attacks. They come in high amounts from meat and dairy products.
Lipids are essential for a healthy, balanced diet. They provide energy and also play a key role in the production of hormones and cell membranes, as well as in the absorption of nutrients and fat-soluble vitamins.
Phosphorus is the second most abundant mineral found in the human body, after calcium. It helps cellular reproduction and contributes to the growth and repair of tissues.
Magnesium is an important mineral for bone development and helps the proper functioning of various metabolic processes, like activating the enzymes that help in energy production.
Vitamin B12 (cobalamin) is important for maintaining the health of the nervous system. It works closely with folate (vitamin B9) in the production of red blood cells and the processing of iron.
Vitamin A is a fat-soluble vitamin that is primarily important for maintaining healthy vision. It also acts as an antioxidant and is important for the health of teeth, bones, soft tissues and skin. RAE (Retinol Activity Equivalent) is the unit of measurement the scientific community prefers.
Retinol (vitamin A1) plays a crucial role in maintaining healthy vision, especially night vision. It is important for the development of skin, bones and teeth.
Vitamin A is a fat soluble vitamin that comes in various forms. It is primarily important in maintaining healthy vision and the development of bones, soft tissues and skin. IU (International Units) is the unit of measurement that almost all food labels use.