The composition of a simulated American diet. Comparison of chemical analyses and estimates from food composition tables

Abstract

Chemical analyses were carried out on a food mixture that approximated the average daily per capita use of foods in the U.S. as of 1965-66. The food items selected were chosen from a list (items and quantities brought into the average household) generated by the USDA's 1965 Household Food Consumption Survey. Our analyses are compared with food table calculations of the items in the homogenate and with the Recommended Dietary Allowances (RDAs). Data are given for total and constituent energy supplies per person per day. The protein:fat:carbohydrate distribution of energy was found to be 18:44:38%. Unavailable carbohydrates totaled 19.1 gm. per person per day (6.8% of total carbohydrate); available carbohydrate fraction is itemized in terms of mono- and di-saccharides, starches, and dextrins. Fat content was 135 gm. per person per day; analyses showed that 16:0, 18:0, 18:1, and 18:2 fatty acids made up 89% of total fatty acids, with a P:S ratio of 0.4. Cholesterol content was 576 mg. per person per day; plant sterols, 228; beta-sitosterol, 165; and squalene, 28. Protein content was 115 gm. per person per day (over twice the recommended allowance); amino acid analyses showed concordance with the RDA estimated requirements of the essential amino acids. Major mineral and vitamin contents are also reported. Calculations and chemical data agreed well in many instances, the largest differences being for total protein, dietary "fiber," and certain vitamins.