Analysis of the nutritional composition of the Brazilian Staple Foods Basket

This study sought to assess the nutritional status (energy, carbohydrates, proteins, lipids, calcium, iron, zinc, phosphorus, vitamin A and vitamin C) of the 13 items in the Brazilian staple foods basket and to verify whether they are suitable for the monthly subsistence of an adult. The values established by the Estimated Average Requirement were compared to those found in the study. It is a descriptive study that used information from a food composition table in order to analyze data regarding the Brazilian staple foods basket from the Inter-Union Department of Statistics and Socio-Economic Studies. Appropriate values were found for carbohydrates, proteins, iron, zinc, phosphorus. Total energy and lipids were above the recommended values, while calcium and vitamin A were below. Vitamin C had adequate values only for females. The Brazilian staple foods basket largely reflects the individual food intake. However, given the prevalence of obesity in the Brazilian population, some adjustments in this nutritional basis are required, so that it is rendered adequate in terms of macronutrient and micronutrient values.