What food group does a starchy vegetable belong to?

A starchy vegetable belongs to the vegetable food group because it is classified primarily based on its botanical and nutritional characteristics. Vegetables are typically categorized based on their role in the diet, which includes any edible part of a plant that is not a fruit, grain, nut, or seed. Starchy vegetables, such as potatoes, corn, and peas, provide important nutrients and carbohydrates that play a vital role in a balanced diet while also contributing fiber, vitamins, and minerals.

Other food groups listed, such as grains and proteins, refer to different categories that encompass other types of food. Grains, for example, include foods like rice and oats, which are primarily sources of carbohydrates in a different form, while protein sources typically consist of meats, legumes, and dairy products. Since starchy vegetables are specifically identified as a type of vegetable due to their origin from the plant and their nutritional profile, they are grouped accordingly.