Which of the following is NOT a key component of a balanced diet?

In a balanced diet, key components include carbohydrates, vitamins, and fats, all of which play essential roles in maintaining health. Carbohydrates provide energy, vitamins are crucial for various bodily functions, and fats are important for cell structure and energy storage.

Processed sugars, on the other hand, are not considered a key component of a balanced diet. While sugars do provide energy, they often come with additional calories without the necessary nutrients found in whole foods. Overconsumption of processed sugars is linked to various health issues, such as obesity, diabetes, and heart disease. These sugars should be limited in one's diet, making them unsuitable as a key component in the context of balanced nutrition.