According to nutrition, which category describes starch?

Starch is classified as a major nutrient because it is one of the primary sources of carbohydrates in the human diet, playing a crucial role in energy supply. Carbohydrates like starch are essential for the body, providing the glucose needed to fuel cells, especially those in the brain and muscles. Starches are polysaccharides made up of numerous glucose units, found abundantly in foods such as grains, legumes, and tubers.

In contrast, the other categories listed do not accurately describe starch. It is not a protein, which is characterized by amino acids and is essential for building and repairing tissues. Additionally, starch should not be considered a minor carbohydrate, as it forms a significant part of the carbohydrate intake in many diets. Lastly, it is not an essential fatty acid, which refers to fats that are necessary for health and must be obtained from food because the body cannot synthesize them. Thus, identifying starch as a major nutrient helps emphasize its importance in nutrition and dietary guidelines.