USDA National Nutrient Database

USDA National Nutrient Database
Name	USDA National Nutrient Database
Developer	United States Department of Agriculture
Released	0 1992
Discontinued	0 2019
Genre	Nutritional database
License	Public domain

USDA National Nutrient Database. The USDA National Nutrient Database for Standard Reference, often called the USDA Nutrient Database, was a comprehensive public-domain compilation of food composition data. Developed and maintained by the Agricultural Research Service of the United States Department of Agriculture, it served as the foundation for most food and nutrition databases in the United States. Its data were integral to activities ranging from scientific research to public health policy and consumer education, providing detailed information on the nutrient content of thousands of foods.

Overview

The database provided detailed profiles for a vast array of foods, listing components like protein, fat, vitamins, minerals, and amino acids. It was considered the authoritative source for food composition data in North America, influencing numerous other systems and applications. Data from this resource were incorporated into tools like the Healthy Eating Index and used by agencies such as the Food and Drug Administration for nutrition labeling. Its structure allowed for complex queries and analyses, supporting work by institutions like the National Institutes of Health and the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics.

History and development

Systematic collection of food composition data by the United States Department of Agriculture began in the late 19th century, with early work published in Agriculture Handbook No. 8. The modern, electronic iteration was launched in 1992, evolving from printed tables to a dynamic digital resource. Key development occurred at the Nutrient Data Laboratory in Beltsville, Maryland, with collaboration from other agencies like the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. The database expanded significantly following the Nutrition Labeling and Education Act of 1990, which increased demand for standardized nutrient information.

Data sources and methodology

Data were compiled from multiple sources, including scientific literature analyzed by the Nutrient Data Laboratory, contracts with universities like the University of Georgia, and contributions from the food industry. Analytical methodology followed rigorous protocols, often involving the use of AOAC International methods. The Food and Nutrient Database for Dietary Studies was a key derivative, tailored for analyzing intakes from surveys like the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey. Quality control was maintained through collaborations with entities such as the International Network of Food Data Systems.

Uses and applications

The database was essential for formulating dietary guidelines and assessing national food consumption through the What We Eat in America survey. It underpinned the nutrition facts panels regulated by the Food and Drug Administration and supported clinical research at institutions like the Mayo Clinic. Software developers for diet analysis tools, including ESHA Research and MyFitnessPal, relied heavily on its data. Public health initiatives by the American Heart Association and the World Health Organization often referenced its figures for policy development.

Limitations and criticisms

Criticisms included variability in data due to factors like agricultural practices and food processing, which could affect nutrient levels. The database sometimes relied on outdated or imputed values rather than direct chemical analysis for every food item. It did not comprehensively cover bioactive compounds like phytochemicals or reflect the full diversity of international cuisines. Updates were periodic, not real-time, which could lag behind new product introductions, a noted issue during the rise of products like chia seeds.

Related databases and successors

The primary successor is FoodData Central, launched in 2019, which integrates and expands upon the legacy database. Other related systems include the Canadian Nutrient File and the European Food Information Resource network. Specialized databases like the Flavonoid and Isoflavone Databases were also spun off from the core work. International efforts, such as those by the Food and Agriculture Organization and the International Food Data Conference, continue to build upon the foundational models established by this resource.

Category:United States Department of Agriculture Category:Nutrition databases Category:Agricultural research