Veterinary Technician National Exam (VTNE) Practice Exam

Which one of the following choices does not produce energy when ingested?

1. Mineral

2. Carbohydrate

3. Protein

4. Sucrose

The correct answer is: Mineral

Minerals are inorganic substances that play crucial roles in various biological processes, such as enzyme function, neurotransmission, and bone formation. They do not contain carbon and are not metabolized to produce energy in the same way that macronutrients like carbohydrates, proteins, and fats are. Carbohydrates, proteins, and sugars like sucrose can all be broken down by the body to yield energy. Carbohydrates, for example, are primarily used as a quick energy source. Proteins can be broken down to provide energy when carbohydrates and fats are not available, though their primary function is to support growth and repair. Sucrose, being a disaccharide, is a form of carbohydrate that is readily broken down into glucose and fructose to be utilized for energy. Therefore, minerals stand out as the choice that does not provide energy upon ingestion, highlighting their essential but non-caloric role in nutrition compared to the energy-yielding macronutrients.