A COMBINATION METHOD OF DIETARY SURVEY - REPORT OF A FIELD-TRIAL

A comparative study of dietary survey methods led to the suggestion that the best estimate of subject's usual dietary intakes would be obtained using a combination of different techniques. A survey tool was devised which comprised elements of weighed record, food frequency interviewing and 24-hour recall. The aim of this methodology was to provide data from large-scale studies performed by market-research personnel which included the assessment of intakes of non-nutrient elements of the diet, e.g. additives or contaminants. A field-trial was conducted with small groups of recruits and an experienced dietitian performed the fieldwork and was able to assess the methodology as a survey tool. Results from the study illustrated the differences in average daily nutrient intakes between disabled adults (energy 5.83 MJ, protein 66.7 g, fat 57 g, carbohydrate 162 g), elderly subjects (7.53 MJ, 71.9 g, 80 g and 206 g) and above-average earners (10.25 MJ, 93.2 g, 108 g and 262 g). The field-trial supported the combination method as a promising alternative to existing techniques and suggestions are made for its development and use.