ARS | Publication request: FOOD AND NUTRIENT INTAKES: QUALITY ASSURANCE IN THE DATA PROCESSING PHASE

Submitted to: National Nutrient Databank Conference
Publication Type: Abstract Only
Publication Acceptance Date: March 9, 2004
Publication Date: June 4, 2004
Citation: Anand, J., Raper, N. 2004. Food and nutrient intakes: Quality assurance in the data processing phase [abstract]. 28th National Nutrient Databank Conference Program and Abstracts. p 22.

Technical Abstract: The Food Surveys Research Group (FSRG) is responsible for methods of data collection and processing of dietary intake data, including the What We Eat in America Survey, the dietary component of the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES). A goal of this work is to provide data of the highest quality. Many measures have been implemented to ensure accuracy of the data, such as a state-of-the-art data collection instrument and an extensive food and nutrient database. Also important, but usually receiving less public attention, is the quality assurance taking place during data processing, which is the focus of this presentation. Objective: To contribute to the accuracy and integrity of food and nutrient intake data using quality assurance steps during data processing. Methods and Materials: A four-part quality assurance procedure is used for food intake data processed by FSRG. This includes (1) determination of overall acceptability of each 24-hour recall, (2) resolution or confirmation of new or unusual foods and amounts reported by respondents, (3) administration of data integrity checks, and (4) verification of 24-hour recalls with extremely high nutrient intakes (outliers). Results: Quality assurance during data processing is an important component of quality control for food and nutrient intake data, maximizing the quality of data produced at FSRG. Significance: Quality control procedures implemented by FSRG contribute to the accuracy and validity of the intake data and also are used to improve procedures for future studies. Results help identify interviewing or coding situations that need to be targeted for subsequent training. Likewise, the information is used to identify and implement improvements in the Automated Multiple Pass Method, our data collection instrument, and also the USDA Food and Nutrient Database for Dietary Studies maintained by FSRG for dietary analysis.