nutrition / source checked

Food values: know what the numbers mean

USDA FoodData Central offers food search and food-detail records. A calculation needs a specific food record and measured quantity—not only a food name.

Keep the food identity, data type, units and preparation state visible. A nutrient total describes the chosen foods; it does not determine what a particular athlete needs.

What to do next

• Select the exact food, then enter its mass in grams.
• Check raw/cooked state and whether a value is missing before comparing totals.

References

USDA • FoodData Central API guide • checked 2026-09-29

Not specialist reviewed.