The FoodData Central API provides REST access to FoodData Central (FDC). It is intended primarily to assist application developers wishing to incorporate nutrient data into their applications or websites.
To take full advantage of the API, developers should familiarize themselves with the database by reading the database documentation available via links on Data Type Documentation. This documentation provides the detailed definitions and descriptions needed to understand the data elements referenced in the API documentation.
NOTE: The API that was available on the USDA Food Composition Databases Web site is no longer being updated and will be discontinued March 31, 2020. Users are encouraged to begin working with the new FoodData Central API system described on this page. This new API allows users to obtain Standard Reference (SR) Legacy data, provides the most current data from the USDA Global Branded Foods Database, and give users the ability to search for specific foods in Foundation Foods and the Food and Nutrient Database for Dietary Studies (FNDDS) 2017-2018.
What's Available The API provides two endpoints: the Food Search endpoint, which returns foods that match desired search criteria, and the Food Details endpoint, which returns details on a particular food.
FoodData Central is an integrated data system that provides expanded nutrient profile data and links to related agricultural and experimental research.
At this time, only a basic view of search results is available for viewing on mobile devices. Advanced filter features, such as searching by data type, are not yet mobile-enabled and are available only in desktop view. Users are encouraged to use a desktop computer to conduct food item searches
FoodData Central takes the analysis, compilation, and presentation of nutrient and food component data to a new level. FoodData Central:
- Can be used by, and has benefits for, a variety of users, including researchers, policy makers, academicians and educators, nutrition and health professionals, product developers, and others.
- Includes five distinct data types that provide information on food and nutrient profiles: Foundation Foods, Food and Nutrient Database for Dietary Studies 2017-2018 (FNDDS 2017-2018), National Nutrient Database for Standard Reference Legacy Release (SR Legacy), USDA Global Branded Food Products Database (Branded Foods), and Experimental Foods. Each of these data types has a unique purpose and unique attributes.
- Links these distinct data types in one location, thus strengthening the ability of researchers, policy makers, and others to address vital issues related to food, nutrition, and diet-health interactions.
- Provides a broad snapshot in time of the nutrients and other components found in a wide variety of foods and food products..
