IELTS Vocabulary: Food

Below is a list of essential vocabulary related to food, which will help you improve your understanding of food-related terms. Read through the definitions and familiarize yourself with these key terms to expand your knowledge and better prepare for the IELTS exam.

1. Beverage - A drink, typically non-alcoholic.
2. Overweight - Having excess body fat; commonly used to describe individuals who are obese or carrying more weight than is healthy.
3. Cholesterol - A waxy substance found in the blood that can be harmful if levels are too high. It plays a role in building cell membranes but can contribute to heart disease.
4. Genetically Modified - Refers to food that has been altered at the genetic level to produce specific traits such as improved resistance to pests or increased shelf life.
5. Vitamins - Essential organic compounds that the body needs in small amounts to maintain health, such as Vitamin C or Vitamin D.
6. Balanced Diet - Eating a variety of different foods in the right proportions to maintain health and provide the body with the necessary nutrients.
7. Organic - Food grown without the use of synthetic pesticides, fertilizers, or genetically modified organisms (GMOs), often marketed as being more environmentally friendly.
8. Vegetarian - A person who does not consume meat or fish, often due to health, ethical, or environmental reasons.
9. Malnourished - Lacking the proper nutrition, either from not eating enough or from eating the wrong types of food that fail to provide necessary nutrients.
10. Nutrients - Important substances found in food, such as vitamins, minerals, and proteins, which the body needs to maintain health and function properly.
11. Snack - A small portion of food eaten between regular meals, often quick and light.
12. Fat - A nutrient found in both animals and plants that provides energy and aids in the absorption of certain vitamins; however, excessive consumption can be harmful.
13. Canteen - A dining facility at schools, workplaces, or military establishments where food is served.
14. Obesity - A condition where a person is extremely overweight, which can lead to various health problems such as heart disease and diabetes.
15. Calorie - A unit of measurement for energy. The number of calories in food indicates how much energy the body can derive from it.
16. Portion - A serving of food; the amount of food deemed suitable for one person.
17. Protein - A vital nutrient found in foods such as meat, fish, eggs, and legumes, essential for building and repairing tissues in the body.
18. Carbohydrate - A naturally occurring nutrient in food, such as sugars and starches, that the body uses for energy.
19. Confectionery - Sweets, chocolates, and other sugar-rich treats.
20. Fast Food - Food that is quickly prepared and served, often high in fats, sugar, and salt, such as hamburgers, fries, and pizzas.
21. Allergy - An adverse immune response to certain foods, which can lead to symptoms such as swelling, rashes, or even life-threatening reactions.
22. Have a Healthy Appetite - Having a natural desire to eat a sufficient amount of food for nutritional needs, typically indicating balanced eating habits.
23. Food Poisoning - Illness caused by eating contaminated food, which may result from bacteria, viruses, or toxins in the food.
24. Minerals - Naturally occurring substances like calcium and iron, essential for various bodily functions, including bone health and oxygen transport.

Practice Sentences: Fill in the Blanks

Below are sentences with blanks. Try filling in the blanks with the correct word. Once you have your answers, share them in the comments section below!

1. The children in the impoverished village were ________ because they lacked access to nutritious food.
2. A hot cup of tea or coffee is a popular ________ that many people enjoy in the morning.
3. Some people experience ________ after eating contaminated food, which causes nausea and stomach cramps.
4. If you consume more calories than you burn, you may become ________ over time, which can lead to health issues.
5. High levels of ________ in the blood can increase the risk of heart disease.
6. The new food allergy laws in schools help prevent students from consuming items they may be ________ to.
7. Some crops are ________ to resist pests and grow more efficiently, but some people prefer non-GMO foods.
8. ______ foods are grown without the use of harmful pesticides and artificial chemicals.
9. ________ are naturally occurring substances like calcium and iron that are vital for maintaining bodily functions.
10. Eating a ________ ensures that your body gets all the necessary nutrients, like proteins, carbohydrates, and fats, in the right amounts.
11. Eating too much ________ can lead to weight gain, especially if it's not balanced with regular exercise.
12. My friend has been a ________ for five years and does not eat meat or fish.
13. Fresh fruits and vegetables are a great source of ________, which are essential for maintaining good health.
14. Carrots are rich in ________ like vitamin A, which is essential for eye health.
15. I like to have a light ________ between meals, such as a piece of fruit or a handful of nuts.
16. The company has seen a rise in ________ as people are becoming more health-conscious and prefer healthier snacks.
17. My grandmother always talks about the importance of a healthy ________ to avoid illness and maintain energy levels.