🥦 FoodData Central: Your Free Tool for Smarter, Healthier Eating

ketogenicfasting
Nov 5, 2023
2 min read

Updated: May 10

🧾 What Is FoodData Central?

FoodData Central is an integrated data system created and maintained by the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA). It provides expanded nutrient profile data and links to related agricultural and experimental research.

In this database, you’ll find all the information you need regarding any and all edible fruits and vegetables—and much more.

Maintained by the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), the FoodData Central provides expanded nutrient profile data and links to related agricultural and experimental research.

In this database, you’ll find all the information you need regarding any and all edible fruits and vegetables—and much more.

👥 Who Uses It—and Why It Matters to You

FoodData Central can be used by, and benefits, a wide range of users:

👩‍🔬 Researchers
🏛 Policy Makers
🎓 Academicians & Educators
🧑‍⚕️ Nutrition & Health Professionals
🧑‍🍳 Product Developers
🛒 Most importantly: You, the consumer

Whether you're tracking your nutrition, developing a keto-friendly recipe, or making better grocery store decisions, FoodData Central is a powerful, science-backed tool.

🎯 What Does It Do?

✅ Offers detailed nutrient information

✅ Connects users to agricultural and food composition research

✅ Supports informed food choices and diet planning

✅ Assists in public health and nutrition policy

✅ Serves as a reliable foundation for product formulation and education

📊 Types of Data Included

FoodData Central is made up of five integrated data types:

🥫 Branded Foods – Nutrition data from labels submitted by manufacturers
🥗 Foundation Foods – High-quality, lab-analyzed foods with growing, harvest, and processing details
🍲 SR Legacy – Standard Reference data from previous USDA datasets
🧪 Experimental Foods – Research-driven nutrient and compound data
📋 Survey Foods – Foods reported in national dietary surveys (NHANES)

📱 How to Use It

🌐 Visit https://fdc.nal.usda.gov
🔍 Use the search bar to type any food name (e.g., "blueberries" or "Greek yogurt")
📄 Explore detailed nutrition facts, including macro- and micronutrients
🧭 Filter results by data type or food category for specific research needs

✅ It’s free, public, and no login is required.

🔁 Is It Current?

Yes! The USDA regularly updates the database, especially in the Foundation Foods and Branded Foods sections. Data is frequently reviewed to ensure accuracy, relevance, and scientific credibility.