FAQ

• How is the calculation done on estimating the USDA Micronutrients Rankings?

  All the available nutrients are aggregated and sorted by the highest to the lowest. The values are then given a order ranking divided by the highest available times 10 to allow for a score between 0 and 10.

• What is Ash?

  Ash is simply what is left over after food has been ‘burned up’ during digestion. The body can burn the major nutrients, (carbohydrates, protein and fat) but not minerals (e.g. calcium, potassium, sodium, magnesium) or trace elements (e.g. zinc and iron). So if you were to incinerate some food, all that would remain is the mineral content.

• What is a 'Standard' food?

  Standard either assumes what the USDA considers a typical approach how someone in the USA would prepare the meal or when there's a lack of

• What is 'Other' composed of in the composition pie charts?

  Other could be one of many nutrients that aren't known to us or the USDA at the moment. For instance 'Other' carbohydrates/fats could be glycerol, complex carbs or sugar alcohols. In ash they could be trace minerals not measured in the lab results.

• Why is fiber considered healthy?

  Dietary fiber is beneficial for several reasons. It helps to promote regular bowel movements, which can prevent constipation and other digestive problems. Fiber also helps to lower cholesterol levels, which can reduce the risk of heart disease. Additionally, fiber can help to control blood sugar levels, making it beneficial for people with diabetes.

• Why is saturated fat considered unhealthy?

  Saturated fats are not good for you because they can raise your cholesterol levels, which can increase your risk of heart disease and stroke. Saturated fats are typically found in animal-based products such as meat and dairy, as well as in some plant-based oils like palm oil and coconut oil.

• Why is cholesterol considered unhealthy?

  Dietary cholesterol is considered bad for health because it can contribute to the development of cardiovascular disease. Cholesterol is a waxy substance that is found in animal products such as meat, eggs, and dairy products. When too much cholesterol is consumed, it can accumulate in the blood vessels, leading to the formation of plaque. This plaque can narrow or block the vessels, increasing the risk of heart attack and stroke.

• Why is sodium considered unhealthy?

  Sodium is an essential mineral that helps regulate the balance of fluids in the body and plays a role in nerve and muscle function. However, consuming too much sodium can lead to high blood pressure, which increases the risk of heart disease and stroke. The American Heart Association recommends that adults consume no more than 2,300 milligrams of sodium per day, and ideally less than 1,500 milligrams.

• Is the inedible part of foods included in it's nutritional profile?

  Typically only the edible part. Unless specified otherwise. For example, if you’re eating a banana, and measuring x grams of that, it doesn’t include the peel. Eggs will not include the shell