Summary
This USDA technical document outlines the methodological framework underpinning FoodData Central, the primary US national food composition database. It describes how food samples are selected, analysed, and quality-assured to produce nutrient data used widely in nutritional epidemiology, dietary assessment, and food policy. As a methods reference, it is an essential companion document for researchers drawing on FoodData Central datasets.
UK applicability
FoodData Central is a US-specific resource and its nutrient values reflect American food supply characteristics; UK researchers would typically reference McCance and Widdowson's Composition of Foods (Public Health England/NIHR) instead. However, the methodological standards described may be relevant for comparison with UK nutrient database methodology or for studies using US dietary data.
Key measures
Nutrient composition values (macronutrients, micronutrients, vitamins, minerals); analytical laboratory methods; sampling frame and food categorisation protocols
Outcomes reported
Describes the analytical methods, sampling protocols, and data quality standards used to compile and maintain nutrient composition data within the FoodData Central database. Reports on how food components are measured, documented, and made available for research and policy use.
Topic tags
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