What are compounds in food necessary for proper growth and functioning called?

Compounds in food that are essential for proper growth and functioning are referred to as nutrients. Nutrients encompass a broad range of substances that provide the necessary energy, facilitate bodily functions, support metabolic processes, and contribute to the overall health and well-being of an organism. They include carbohydrates, proteins, fats, vitamins, and minerals, all of which play distinct roles in maintaining health.

While vitamins and minerals are specific types of nutrients that perform vital functions within the body, the term "nutrients" serves as a more comprehensive label for all compounds that fulfill nutritional requirements. Calories, on the other hand, measure the energy provided by food but do not directly describe the compounds themselves. Therefore, nutrients is the most inclusive and precise term for substances in food necessary for growth and proper functioning.