The Importance of Valid and Comparable Food Consumption Data
Estimates of food consumption are a major component to the equation for estimating intake. To date, almost all data about food consumption have been generated for purposes other than estimating the intake of contaminants. Fortunately, the results can be modified to use for estimating contaminant intake. However, it is extremely important that the analyst understand the underlying survey design and make appropriate adjustments to match the contaminant concentration data. Depending on the survey methodology (disappearance, household budget, individual recalls/diaries, etc.), different methods need to be used. Key considerations, including adjustments for edible portion, waste, and processing effects are presented. Data for the food consumption patterns of subgroups are also important, and sources of information are discussed. The relative magnitude of potential biases is presented, along with recommendations for improving assessments.