Field notes / 03
Why raw and cooked entries differ
Every number traces to one specific USDA FoodData Central food record. Missing values stay missing; raw and cooked foods are not treated as interchangeable.
Food composition is reported for a specific state. Raw lentils and cooked chickpeas, for instance, are not interchangeable: water changes the amount of nutrients in 100 g even before any nutrient losses are considered.
Choose an equivalent record
Look for preparation terms such as raw, boiled, dry, skinless and unsalted in the food name and original USDA description. If your meal differs, treat the number as an approximation.
What this calculator does not do
It multiplies the source value by edible grams. It does not model water absorption, cooking yield, nutrient retention or discarded parts. A recipe tool would require those additional factors and source records.
Information only; not personal medical or dietary advice. Consult a qualified professional for individual guidance.