Oils And Fats: Integral Part Of Human Diet

Oils and fats are an essential part of the human diet. Even though the terms fats and oils are used interchangeably many a times, the term oil is used to distinguish the liquid state of fat from the solid-state, which is referred to by using the term fat.

- Nitamani Choudhury*

INTRODUCTION

Oils and fats are an essential part of the human diet. Even though the terms fats and oils are used interchangeably many a times, the term oil is used to distinguish the liquid state of fat from the solid-state, which is referred to by using the term fat. They may either be naturally present or added intentionally to foods for various functional properties that they impart. Oils and fats are important in a variety of food systems as they are responsible for conferring desirable characteristics on the foods. They contribute in developing texture, providing tenderness, adding flavor and aroma to the foods, giving the desired mouthfeel and a feeling of satiety. But as rightly said, every bean has its black, so is with the oils and fats. There are many adverse health issues associated with excessive consumption of foods containing oils and fats and this is one of the pressing issues for the manufacturers, who manufacture products containing fat.

WHY DO WE NEED OILS AND FATS?

• They provide us with energy required for different body functions

• For our brain to function properly

• For a healthy immune system

SOURCES OF OILS AND FATS