Nutrient estimates from computerized questionnaires vs. 24-hr. recall interviews

A computerized nutritional assessment service used by dentists was investigated. Daily nutrient intake of forty-six adult subjects was estimated from replies to a computerized food frequency questionnaire and the results compared with the average nutrient intakes of the same individuals obtained during five 24-hr. dietary recall interviews. Although the two methods produced essentially the same mean for carbohydrate intake and a minimal difference in the mean caloric values, mean estimates of the other nutrients were 6 to 88 per cent greater with the computerized data than via the dietary recalls. The dietary assessment service included unwarranted recommendations for vitamin and mineral supplementation.