Beginner's Guide to USDA's FoodData Central Database

Introduction to FoodData Central

FoodData Central is an integrated data system created by the US Department of Agriculture (USDA) that provides comprehensive nutritional information on over 8,800 foods. With detailed data on calories, macronutrients, micronutrients, and more, FoodData Central aims to enable informed decisions about what we eat.

Background on FoodData Central

FoodData Central brought together pre-existing food composition databases from the USDA, including the National Nutrient Database for Standard Reference (SR Legacy) and the USDA Branded Food Products Database. It continues to expand with the addition of new foods and nutrients.

By consolidating food data into one searchable platform rather than separate datasets, FoodData Central strives to be user-friendly while still providing science-based information on America's food supply.

Goals and Objectives

The key goals behind the development of FoodData Central include:

• Providing free access to standardized food nutrition data
• Enabling transparency regarding data sources and methodologies
• Supporting research, policymaking, and nutrition monitoring efforts
• Educating consumers to make informed food choices

Using FoodData Central

The FoodData Central database is publicly accessible online at fdc.nal.usda.gov. Let's explore key features for searching nutrients and understanding results.

Food Search

The food search bar allows looking up items by name, description, or product code. You can search for generic foods (e.g. apples) or specific brands and items. Search results display basic product descriptions.

Nutrient List

Select a food item to see available nutrition data including serving sizes, calories, macronutrients (protein, carbohydrates, sugars, fiber, fat), micronutrients (vitamins, minerals), and more. Results derive from lab analyses or calculations.

Nutrient Rankings

For any nutrient, you can see a food's relative ranking among other items. For example, you can identify foods highest or lowest in vitamin C content. Rankings help compare nutrition across thousands of options.

Data Sources

FoodData Central provides citation information on the original analysis methods and data sources used to generate each food entry. Traceability and transparency are key priorities.

Data and Standards

Stringent data practices and standardization protocols ensure the quality and reliability of nutrient data in FoodData Central.

Sampling and Analysis

While some entries use lab test results from scientific literature, most derive from USDA's National Food and Nutrient Analysis Program (NFNAP). Foods are purchased, prepared, and analyzed using validated methods.

Quality Control

Rigorous quality control happens at multiple points: during sampling and testing, data compilation, and entry review. Statistical analysis confirms accuracy compared to published values.

Standard Reference Database

The Standard Reference (SR Legacy) database represents the gold standard reference nutrients for over 7,000 foods. It underpins nutrition monitoring and policymaking for the US government.

Brand Name Database

The Branded Food Products Database provides nutrient data as declared on product labels. While less standardized than SR Legacy, it captures additional commercially available items.

Applications

The wealth of open data in FoodData Central fosters various applications for commercial, research, policymaking, and consumer interests.

Research

Scientists utilize FoodData Central to study diet and disease relationships, human nutrition requirements, food consumption patterns, and more.

Industry Innovation

Food manufacturers, restaurants, and marketers apply FoodData Central data to meet labeling regulations, formulate products, and substantiate claims.

Nutrition Policy

Federal, state, and local governments harness data to develop programs, guidelines, and standards that address public health nutrition concerns.

Consumer Education

Dietitians, health professionals, and everyday people access FoodData Central information to guide healthier food selections.

Conclusion

With comprehensive, standardized data on America's food supply, FoodData Central aims to be the definitive resource for food and nutrient information. Powerful search functionality, robust datasets, and transparent practices underlie this valuable tool for stakeholders across the food system seeking to advance nutrition research, policy, innovation, and consumer knowledge.

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new treatment regimen.