Oils are an important part of a healthy diet. They provide essential fatty acids and often contain fat-soluble vitamins such as vitamins A, E, and K, and lipid-soluble phytochemicals. Most consumers recognize a relationship between choices of lipids and overall health, but the positive roles of lipid in the body are often overlooked. Some populations have done very well eating large amounts of certain types of lipids, such as the Inuit’s dietary intake that contain a high proportion of fatty fish and people of the Mediterranean that use substantial amounts of olive oil. 

In summary, each of the food groups makes a unique contribution to our diet. By making wise selections from each of the groups regularly, all our nutrient needs can be covered within a caloric budget that is right for us.