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Cereals are the staple food of many countries - Leaving Cert Home Economics - Question 3 - 2018
Question 3
Cereals are the staple food of many countries. (a) Give an account of (i) the nutritive value and (ii) the dietetic value of cereals. (b) List three cereals. Name ... show full transcript
Worked Solution & Example Answer:Cereals are the staple food of many countries - Leaving Cert Home Economics - Question 3 - 2018
Step 1
(i) the nutritive value
Answer
Cereals are an essential source of nutrients. They provide:
- Energy: Cereals are rich in carbohydrates, primarily starch, which is a major energy source for the body.
- Proteins: While not as high in proteins as legumes, cereals provide some essential amino acids necessary for growth and repair.
- Fiber: Whole grains contain dietary fiber which aids in digestion and helps prevent constipation.
- Vitamins and Minerals: Cereals contain B vitamins (like niacin, thiamine) which are vital for energy metabolism, as well as minerals such as iron, calcium, and phosphorus.
Step 2
(ii) the dietetic value
Answer
Dietarily, cereals hold numerous benefits:
- Low Glycemic Index: Whole grains have a lower glycemic index, which helps in maintaining stable blood sugar levels.
- Heart Health: The dietary fiber in cereals can help lower cholesterol levels, contributing to heart health.
- Versatility: They can be used in a variety of dishes, from breakfast cereals to baked goods, making them easy to incorporate into any diet.
- Digestive Health: The fiber in whole grains promotes digestive health by stimulating peristalsis.
Step 4
Step 5
(i) explain the difference between white (plain / cream) flour and wholemeal flour
Answer
White flour is produced by milling the grain and removing the bran and germ, which leaves mostly the endosperm. This results in a finer texture and a longer shelf life but less nutritional value. Wholemeal flour, on the other hand, includes the entire grain, retaining the bran and germ, thus providing more fiber and nutrients.
Step 6
(ii) outline three guidelines to consider when storing cereal products.
Answer
- Keep in a cool, dry place: This helps to prevent moisture, which can lead to spoilage or mold.
- Use airtight containers: This protects cereals from insects and contamination.
- Store away from direct sunlight: Light can degrade the quality of cereal products over time.