Food

"Food" - what is it, definition of the term

Edible matter is any material that supplies the essential nutrients and energy required for an organism’s growth, maintenance, and physiological processes; it provides carbohydrates, proteins, fats, vitamins, and minerals in a form that can be ingested, digested, and assimilated. In the case of rodents such as rats and mice, this nutrient source typically includes grains, seeds, fruits, insects, and protein‑rich waste, each delivering the specific dietary components needed to support metabolism, reproduction, and overall health.

Detailed information

Rats and mice are omnivorous mammals that exploit a broad spectrum of edible matter available in their habitats. Their digestive systems accommodate both plant and animal sources, allowing rapid adaptation to fluctuating resource availability.

Typical dietary components include:

  • Cereals such as wheat, corn, and barley
  • Legume seeds like soy and lentils
  • Fresh fruits (e.g., apples, berries) and vegetables (e.g., carrots, leafy greens)
  • Invertebrates, including insects and earthworms
  • Processed remnants from human environments (e.g., bread crumbs, meat scraps)

Macronutrient balance is critical. Protein should represent 14–20 % of total intake to sustain growth and reproduction; carbohydrates supply the primary energy reserve; dietary fats, comprising 5–10 % of the diet, support membrane integrity and hormone synthesis. Essential micronutrients—vitamins A, D, E, and B complex, plus minerals such as calcium, phosphorus, and iron—must be present in bioavailable forms to prevent deficiencies.

In laboratory settings, standardized pellet formulations provide consistent nutrient profiles, eliminating variability inherent in wild foraging. These mixes typically contain purified casein, corn starch, and vitamin–mineral premixes, calibrated to deliver precise caloric density and amino‑acid ratios.

Improper nutrition predisposes rodents to health complications. Excessive caloric intake leads to obesity and insulin resistance; insufficient fiber results in gastrointestinal stasis; inadequate calcium–phosphorus ratios cause skeletal malformations. Regular monitoring of body condition and adjusting dietary composition mitigate these risks.