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About

Data Sources

Every number on this site traces back to a verified scientific source. Here's exactly where our data comes from.

Primary Source — USDA FoodData Central

The majority of our food composition data is sourced from the USDA FoodData Central (FDC), maintained by the U.S. Department of Agriculture's Agricultural Research Service. FoodData Central integrates multiple nutrient databases into a single, publicly accessible resource.

We primarily use the SR Legacy and Foundation Foods datasets, which provide the most comprehensive analytical values across a wide range of foods. Data is available freely at fdc.nal.usda.gov.

Daily Reference Values

Percent Daily Value (%DV) calculations are based on the FDA's 2020 Daily Reference Values, as published in the U.S. Nutrition Facts label regulations (21 CFR 101.9). These values apply to a 2,000 calorie diet and represent a reference for general nutritional guidance.

Data Processing

We import raw nutrient data, standardise units, calculate per-100g values, and derive %DV figures. Foods are grouped and cross-referenced using the USDA's food group taxonomy. Where multiple data entries exist for the same food, we select the most analytically complete record.

Food and nutrient names are translated to multiple languages by our localisation pipeline, with human review for accuracy.

Update Frequency

We synchronise with USDA FoodData Central releases as they become available, typically several times per year. Each import is version-tracked and attributed to its source record.

Accuracy & Limitations

Nutritional values represent laboratory-measured averages for a food in its described form. Actual nutrient content in a specific sample may vary based on variety, growing conditions, preparation method, and storage. Use values as estimates for general planning — not as clinically precise measurements.

If you spot a data error, please let us know.