Energy-dense foods contain little____________.

• A. Vitamins
• B. Minerals
• C. Nutrients
• D. Calories

Answer: (C)

Energy-dense foods provide many calories in a small amount of food, but they often offer relatively few vitamins and minerals for that amount of energy. In other words, their nutrient density is low, so they contain little nutrients overall. That’s why the best answer is nutrients. For example, a candy bar delivers lots of calories yet typically doesn’t contribute much in the way of vitamins or minerals. Choices like calories aren’t correct because energy-dense foods are high in calories, not low; vitamins and minerals are specific nutrients, but the statement refers to nutrients in general rather than a specific type.