Food contains many essential nutrients including macronutrients (required in large quantities) and micronutrients (required in fewer quantities). Living organisms need these nutrients for various reasons. These are:
(a) The nutrients in food are catabolised or broken down to release energy that is required by the body to perform different functions.
(b) The nutrients support the proper growth and development of the body.
(c) They build the immune system of the body that protects from infections and pathogens.
The organisms require food because its breakdown releases energy and the nutrients support proper growth and development