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Our approach

Clear numbers. Traceable sources.

How CarbTable selects food records, handles portions, calculates nutrition and preserves missing values.

A specific record for a specific food

Each food in this catalogue is linked to one USDA FoodData Central record. We retain the original description, dataset, nutrient profile and documented portion weights. Different preparations are separate entries where the source distinguishes them.

How the calculator works

For each nutrient: value per 100 g × edible weight in grams ÷ 100. Household measures first use the gram weight documented for that food. Ounces are converted as a unit of mass; they are not fluid ounces.

We keep the source precision when calculating and sum unrounded contributions in a meal. Displayed nutrient values are rounded to one decimal place, except energy and sodium, which are rounded to whole numbers. Positive gram values below 0.1 g are displayed as <0.1 g.

Total carbohydrate and missing values

All 500 current records use USDA nutrient 205, carbohydrate by difference, which includes fiber. We show total carbohydrate, fiber and sugars separately. We do not calculate net carbs.

A dash means a nutrient is not reported. Missing data never becomes zero. If one meal ingredient lacks a nutrient, that total is labelled incomplete.

What has been checked

The current beta catalogue was imported from original USDA files on October 26, 2026. Automated checks compare every imported nutrient and portion with its source, validate units and detect duplicate identifiers. This is not independent clinical or dietitian review. Broader editorial review remains part of preparation for public launch.

Portions and images

We use native source portions, normalizing an explicit quantity to one unit when needed and preserving its weight relationship. We do not infer a universal density or create extra cup and spoon equivalents. A preferred portion without a matching source measure defaults to 100 g.

The original illustrations were created with AI and supplied by the project owner. Foods awaiting an original illustration use a temporary category icon from Lucide. These visuals identify foods; they do not depict tested recipes or weighed portions.

Corrections and versions

Imports preserve source records and provenance. New data is checked before publication. Explore the sources or prepare a data issue report.