Verifying database macros?

lporter229
lporter229 Posts: 4,907 Member
edited February 12 in Food and Nutrition
Since I have started paying closer attention to my macros, I have realized just how many errors there are in the database entries for most generic foods. For example, the other day I selected a general entry for a cup of broccoli and realized that it was set for 6 grams of protein. Seemed unlikely, so I did a quick Google search to verify and as suspected, that was way off. Just wondering what anyone (esp. those who monitor macros) does to verify the data and if anyone has any tips for making sure you get the most accurate counts. Googling every item is not really reasonable to me...isn't that what MFP is supposed to be for?

Replies

  • MinnieInMaine
    MinnieInMaine Posts: 6,400 Member
    Your best bet for generic non-name brand foods like fresh fruits and veggies or even raw meat, is to look for listings that say USDA on them as these tend to be the most accurate. If you find a listing for a specific product by brand name that you know is incorrect, you can edit it and that listing will be updated (FYI, not sure if that's immediate). While the point of MFP food database is convenience, it can be difficult to keep up with changes or even the fact that this website is used internationally. Sometimes the same food made in different countries can have slightly different nutrients (you may have noticed listings that specify UK or Canada). And often the way a product is made is changed every year or two.

    Plus you have to account for user error. The unfortunate thing about allowing folks to add their own food listings to the database is that they're not as concerned about the macro or even micro-nutrients and may just enter calories or even make a simple typing mistake.

    Just do your best to confirm when you can.
  • lacroyx
    lacroyx Posts: 5,754 Member
    http://ndb.nal.usda.gov/ndb/search/list
  • _db_
    _db_ Posts: 179 Member
    If you're using google chrome, try this out.

    http://www.myfitnesspal.com/blog/damonbrent/view/myfitnesspal-google-chrome-extension-617102

    One bit of the extension calculates the "quality" of the entry based on the reported calories and macros. It doesn't know if the values are actually correct, but it can at least identify those entries that are nonsensically incorrect.

    jVcHmhu.png
  • lporter229
    lporter229 Posts: 4,907 Member
    http://ndb.nal.usda.gov/ndb/search/list

    Thank you...great resource!

    And thanks to all of you for the replies. I do use Chrome, so I will definitely add that extension.
  • _db_
    _db_ Posts: 179 Member
    http://ndb.nal.usda.gov/ndb/search/list

    Thank you...great resource!

    And thanks to all of you for the replies. I do use Chrome, so I will definitely add that extension.

    http://skipthepie.org/ is my favorite online food database. http://nutritiondata.self.com/ is another really good one.
  • _Terrapin_
    _Terrapin_ Posts: 4,301 Member
    Since I have started paying closer attention to my macros, I have realized just how many errors there are in the database entries for most generic foods. For example, the other day I selected a general entry for a cup of broccoli and realized that it was set for 6 grams of protein. Seemed unlikely, so I did a quick Google search to verify and as suspected, that was way off. Just wondering what anyone (esp. those who monitor macros) does to verify the data and if anyone has any tips for making sure you get the most accurate counts. Googling every item is not really reasonable to me...isn't that what MFP is supposed to be for?

    Accuracy comes down to your desire for it. MFP has multiple entries and has been explained on prior threads it is due to user base. For accuracy keep tracking your intake and when you find an error correct it, then, delete the existing or other item from your food lists; one of many ways to get to where you want to be. Good luck.
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