What term refers to an ingested chemical that must be consumed?

The term that refers to an ingested chemical that must be consumed is "essential nutrient." Essential nutrients are substances that the body cannot synthesize on its own or cannot produce in sufficient quantities to meet its needs. Therefore, they must be obtained through the diet. This includes certain vitamins, minerals, fatty acids, and amino acids that play critical roles in various bodily functions such as growth, metabolism, and overall health.

In contrast, non-essential nutrients are those that the body can produce, so they do not need to be obtained exclusively through dietary sources. While minerals may be classified under the broader category of nutrients, they do not specifically encompass the complete range of substances needed for the body, as not all minerals are considered essential for daily intake. Macronutrients refer to the larger categories of nutrients required in significant amounts, such as carbohydrates, proteins, and fats, but do not define the necessity of consumption in the same way that essential nutrients do.