What does the term "nutrient density" indicate?

The term "nutrient density" refers to the ratio of nutrients provided by a food item relative to its calorie content. A food that is considered nutrient-dense contains a high level of essential nutrients—such as vitamins, minerals, and other beneficial compounds—compared to the number of calories it provides. This concept emphasizes the quality of the food rather than just the quantity of calories, encouraging choices that provide the most health benefits with fewer empty calories. Foods with high nutrient density support overall health and well-being, making them important components of a balanced diet.

In contrast, the other options focus on calories alone, the physical weight of the food, or specific components like fiber, which do not encapsulate the broader concept of nutrient density.