Nutritionists group foods according to their main nutritional properties. Most industrialised countries make these classifications. They can also differ slightly between countries.

The main food groups are:

• Fruit and vegetables
• Starchy foods (breads, cereals and potatoes)
• Protein-rich foods (meat, fish, eggs, nuts and seeds)
• Dairy products
• Fats: butter, oil, margarine
• Water and unsweetened drinks such as tea, coffee, infusions.

Depending on the country, the visual presentation of these groups varies (pyramid, bowls, plates, etc.)