How to Calculate Nutritive Value of Food?
April 5, 2023 | by Yashaswi Pathakamuri | Posted in FAQ's
The nutritive value of food can be calculated using several methods, including:
- Chemical analysis: This method involves breaking down the food into its component parts and analyzing them for their nutrient content using various laboratory techniques. This is the most accurate method, but it is also the most time-consuming and expensive.
- Proximate analysis: This method involves measuring the food’s macronutrient content, including protein, fat, and carbohydrates, as well as its moisture, ash, and fiber content. This method is quicker and less expensive than chemical analysis, but it does not provide a detailed breakdown of individual nutrients.
- Calculation based on nutrient databases: This method involves using nutrient databases to estimate the nutrient content of a food based on its ingredients and cooking methods. This method is less accurate than chemical analysis or proximate analysis, but it is more convenient and can provide a good estimate of a food’s nutrient content.
To calculate the nutritive value of a food using any of these methods, you will need to follow specific procedures and use specialized equipment and software. It is recommended that you seek guidance from a qualified nutritionist or food scientist to ensure accurate results.