Question

Spices are important in the diet because they:
(A) aid in digestion
(B) decrease the cooking time
(C) make food attractive
(D) are appetite stimulating
(E) provide minerals and B-complex vitamins
Choose the correct answer from the options given below:

• A. (A), (B) and (C) only.
• B. (B), (C) and (D) only.
• C. (C), (D) and (E) only.
• D. (A), (C) and (D) only.

Hint:

To solve this quickly, eliminate (B) because spices do not alter physical cooking times.
This narrows the choices down to finding the correct balance of digestive and aesthetic benefits.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is D

Step 1: Understanding the Concept:
Spices are aromatic substances derived from various plant parts (bark, roots, seeds, or buds).
They are used in small quantities in food preparation to improve flavor, aroma, appearance, and digestive quality.

Step 2: Detailed Explanation:
Let us evaluate each dietary role of spices:
- (A) Aid in digestion: Spices contain bioactive compounds (like piperine in black pepper or curcumin in turmeric) that stimulate salivary flow, gastric secretions, and bile acid production, aiding digestion. Thus, (A) is correct.
- (B) Decrease cooking time: Spices do not alter the chemical or physical rate of cooking. Thus, (B) is incorrect.
- (C) Make food attractive: Many spices add vibrant color (such as turmeric, saffron, and red chilli), making the dish visually appealing. Thus, (C) is correct.
- (D) Are appetite stimulating: The volatile oils and aromas of spices stimulate olfactory receptors, increasing appetite. Thus, (D) is correct.
- (E) Provide minerals and B-complex vitamins: While spices contain micronutrients, they are consumed in tiny quantities (pinches or grams), so their overall contribution to daily vitamin and mineral needs is negligible. Thus, (E) is incorrect.
Therefore, only statements (A), (C), and (D) are correct.

Step 3: Final Answer:
Spices are important because they aid digestion, make food attractive, and stimulate appetite, corresponding to option (D).