Vegetables are defined as any part of a plant that is consumed for food as part of a savory meal, excluding fruits, nuts, and grains. Originally collected from the wild, vegetables entered cultivation between 10,000 BC to 7,000 BC. Now vegetables are grown worldwide depending on climate, and trade allows importing from other countries. Vegetables can be eaten raw or cooked, and are important in human nutrition as they are generally low in fat and carbohydrates but high in vitamins, minerals, and fiber.