Contributors of energy.

In research slated to run through February 2009, scientists are identifying and ranking 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 using analytical determination. Researchers will use a probability-based approach for nationwide sampling, unique to various population groups, to select samples of foods to be analyzed. Valid chemical methods including rigorous analytical quality control will be employed. Investigators will disseminate final estimates to the scientific community and the U.S. population via the Internet and by other means.

One of the objectives of this research is to assay key contributors of energy and other nutrients affecting obesity and to monitor these nutrient changes in foods consumed by low-income minority populations, especially those of Hispanic, African-American and Native American heritage.

Contact: Joanne Holden, USDA-ARS Nutrient Data Laboratory, 10300 Baltimore Ave., Building 005, Room 105, BARC West, Beltsville, MD 20705. Phone: [phone]. Fax: [phone]. Email: [e-mail].