DATA METHODOLOGY
How Foodmanac prepares and presents food data
This page explains the current dataset, normalization rules, display decisions, source handling and important limitations behind Foodmanac tools.
1. SOURCE DATA
Documented food-composition records
The current web catalogue was generated from the verified Foodmanac Android database dated July 30, 2026. It includes three major USDA FoodData Central data types:
Foundation Foods
Analytical food-composition records with detailed source information. The imported release is April 2026.
SR Legacy
Historical Standard Reference food-composition records retained for broad food coverage.
FNDDS 2021-2023
Foods and preparations used in dietary survey data, including many prepared and mixed dishes.
USDA states that FoodData Central data are public-domain data released under CC0. Source credit and record links are retained wherever available.
2. PROCESSING
From source files to one searchable catalogue
- IngestSource records are imported with stable identifiers, food names, categories, descriptions, nutrient values and source references.
- NormalizeEquivalent nutrient concepts are mapped to normalized identifiers while original names and units remain visible.
- OrganizeFoods are grouped into practical categories and families without erasing distinct preparations.
- ValidateDatabase integrity, record counts, required fields and source relationships are checked before publication.
- PublishRead-only web endpoints power Search, Compare, Nutrient Finder and Mix Lab.
3. DISPLAY RULES
What the numbers mean
100-gram comparison
Most tool comparisons use the record’s stated 100-gram basis so foods can be viewed consistently.
Serving options
When a source provides a serving quantity, Foodmanac displays it separately from the fixed comparison basis.
Missing is not zero
A missing nutrient value means the source did not provide a usable measurement. It is not presented as measured zero.
Analytical rounding
A very small negative source result may occur from analytical calculation. Public profiles display it as zero and retain a rounding note.
Preparations remain distinct
Raw, cooked, canned, survey and other records remain separate when their source values differ.
Source status
Source labels describe database provenance. They do not certify that a food is medically suitable for an individual.
4. LIMITATIONS
Food values naturally vary
- Cultivar, season, soil, brand, recipe and laboratory method can change a nutrient result.
- Survey foods may represent a typical reported preparation, not every household recipe.
- Cooking can change water weight and nutrient concentration.
- The current dataset has no complete, consistent country-of-origin field.
- Foodmanac does not calculate a personalized diet, diagnosis or treatment.
- Images, when later added, are illustrative and do not prove an exact food match.
5. CORRECTIONS
Found a data or labeling issue?
Send the food name, page address, the value in question and the source you believe should be checked. We prioritize reproducible corrections rather than unsupported replacements.