Project Number: 1235-52000-051-00
Project Type: Appropriated

Start Date: Feb 20, 2004
End Date: Feb 19, 2009

Objective:
To enhance current objectives by collecting updated analytical data on foods commonly consumed that contribute to the increased prevalence of obesity in the United States. To compile analytical information in appropriate databases and release these to the public. To enhance timely updating of nutrient databases. To assay key contributors of energy and other nutrients affecting obesity and to monitor these nutrient changes in foods consumed by the U.S. population, including low-income minority populations, especially those of Hispanic, African American, and Native American heritage. To compile and release changes to the food composition data in the USDA National Nutrient Database for Standard Reference (SR) and its related subset of more than 3,000 foods and 65 components which supports the NHANES: What We Eat in America Survey.

Approach:
This project will identify and rank foods which are key contributors of energy and other dietary components for the U.S. population including minority populations. Where nutrient data are inadequate for high priority foods and nutrients, nationally representative values will be generated by analytical determination. A probability-based approach for nationwide sampling unique to various population groups will be used to select samples of foods to be analyzed. Valid chemical methods including rigorous analytical quality control will be employed. Final estimates will be disseminated to the scientific community and the U.S. population via NDL's website www.ars.usda.gov/ba/bhnrc/ndl and directly to the NHANES: What We Eat in America Survey.