Understanding Nutrient Density
Work is underway in the scientific community to develop a quantitative nutrient density index or "score" for foods.
DEFINITIONS
Nutrient Density — The ratio of the amount of a nutrient in foods to the energy provided by these same foods.
Nutrient-Dense Foods — Foods that provide substantial amounts of vitamins, minerals and other nutrients with relatively few calories.
Low Nutrient-Dense Foods — Foods that supply calories but relatively small amounts of micronutrients (sometimes none at all).
Nutrient Density Index — A scientifically-based quantitative scoring system for ranking individual foods on a nutrient-density basis.
Nutrient-Rich — A term developed through consumer research to describe the concept of nutrient density. Research shows that consumers respond well to this term and to the positive approach to food choices it represents.1
Nutrient-Rich Foods —A consumer-friendly way to describe nutrient-dense foods such as colorful fruits and vegetables, whole, fortified and fiber-rich grain foods, low-fat and fat-free dairy products, and lean meats, poultry, fish, eggs, beans and nuts.
Nutrient-Rich Diet —An eating style that maximizes nutrient density by including a variety of nutrient-rich foods first, followed by less nutrient-dense options as calories and physical activity levels permit.
References:
1. IPSOS Public Affairs. Telephone survey. 2004.
