micronutrient

[mahy-kroh-noo-tree-uhnt, -nyoo-]

noun

Biochemistry.

1. an essential nutrient, as a trace mineral or vitamin, that is required by an organism in minute amounts.

micronutrient

/ ˌmaɪkrəʊˈnjuːtrɪənt /

noun

1. any substance, such as a vitamin or trace element, essential for healthy growth and development but required only in minute amounts

Word History and Origins

Origin of micronutrient¹

First recorded in 1935–40; micro- + nutrient

Example Sentences

Fortified cereals provide essential micronutrients, plant-based milks cater to those with dairy intolerances and some packaged breads offer whole grains that many people wouldn’t otherwise consume.

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Scientists have confirmed that as carbon dioxide levels rise in the atmosphere, staple crops like wheat and rice lose vitamins, proteins and micronutrients like zinc and iron that humans need to survive.

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Declines in micronutrients, which play important roles in growth and health, are a particular concern: Long-term records of crop nutritional values have revealed declines in copper, magnesium, iron and zinc.

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Because, along with the benefits of added micronutrients Cerelac offers parents in the Philippines and the UK, some flavours in the South East Asian nation offer something else: added sugar.

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Recommended values for micronutrients like vitamins are based on Recommended Dietary Allowances, or RDAs, from the National Academies of Sciences Engineering and Medicine.

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