What's In Food

Carbohydrates

Carbohydrates are one of the main types of nutrients, and are an important source of energy for your body. Read more about the food sources, and function of carbohydrates.


Proteins

Protein is in every cell in the body. Our bodies need protein from the foods we eat to build and maintain bones, muscles and skin. Find more information on foods that provide protein, and how much is needed daily.


Fats

Fat is a type of nutrient. You need some fat in your diet but not too much. Fats give you energy and help your body absorb vitamins. Learn more about the different types of fat here.


Fiber

Fiber is a substance in plants. Dietary fiber is the kind you eat. It's a type of carbohydrate. You may also see it listed on a food label as soluble fiber or insoluble fiber. Both types have important health benefits. Read more.


USDA Food Composition Databases

USDA. ARS. Nutrient Data Laboratory.

Look up the amount of calories, fat, protein, vitamins, minerals and more contained in foods using the USDA's on-line searchable database. This database allows you to search the National Nutrient Database for Standard Reference and the Branded Food Products Database from one location.


"What's In The Foods You Eat" Search Tool

USDA. ARS. Food Surveys Research Group.

View nutrient values for 13,000 foods commonly eaten in the United States using familiar portion sizes that can be adjusted by the user.


Nutritive Value of Foods, Home and Garden Bulletin No. 72 (HG-72)

USDA. ARS. Nutrient Data Laboratory.

See how much water, calories, protein, fat and some vitamins and minerals, expressed in terms of household units, are in some commonly eaten foods. This older resource (2002) is still often requested.


Vitamins & Minerals

Get the facts on vitamins and minerals, from A to Z.


Salt & Sodium

Learn more about salt and sodium in your diet and how it affects your health. Find resources and tips for reducing the amount in your diet, yet keeping the flavor.


Phytonutrients

Learn more about phytonutrients and how they play a role in your overall health. Vegetables and fruits are rich sources of phytonutrients, including antioxidants.


Food Additives

Find out about food additives...what they are, what they contribute to foods, how they are regulated, and how to identify them in the foods you eat.


Nutrition Information for Raw Fruits, Vegetables and Fish

DHHS. FDA. Center for Food Safety and Applied Nutrition.

Download and print these charts which show nutrition information for the 20 most frequently consumed raw fruits, vegetables, and fish in the United States.


Commonly Asked Questions (FAQs) - Whats in Food

Find answers to commonly asked questions like where to get nutrient information on foods, ingredient lists on foods, and more...