lownutrientdensity

Low nutrient density, sometimes written as low-nutrient-density or described with the term lownutrientdensity, is a term used in nutrition to describe foods or diets that deliver relatively few essential nutrients for the amount of energy they provide.

It is distinguished from simply being high in calories; it emphasizes the ratio of micronutrients, fiber, and essential compounds to energy. Nutrient density is often expressed as nutrients per 100 kcal or per 100 g, and can be summarized by nutrient density scores or indices. Foods with low nutrient density have limited vitamins, minerals, and fiber for their calorie content, while high nutrient density foods supply more nutrients per calorie.

Typical low nutrient density foods include many ultra-processed snacks, sweetened beverages, refined grains, fried foods, and some fast foods. However, energy density and nutrient density are not always inversely related; some high-energy foods like nuts and seeds can be nutrient-dense, depending on the nutrients considered and portion sizes.

Health and dietary implications: Consistent consumption of low nutrient density foods can reduce diet quality, contribute to micronutrient deficiencies if intake displaces nutrient-rich foods, and may contribute to overweight and chronic disease risk when paired with excessive energy intake. Dietary guidance generally emphasizes prioritizing high nutrient density foods—vegetables, fruits, legumes, whole grains, lean proteins, and fortified options—and limiting ultra-processed, energy-dense items.

Limitations: There is no universal standard for a "low" nutrient density threshold, and different nutrients have varying needs. Nutrient density measurements rely on food composition data, and fortification and bioavailability can affect actual nutrient intake. The concept is used in research, dietary assessment, and nutrition labeling to help evaluate diet quality and guide recommendations.