Food models for portion size estimation of Asian foods

Background Novel portion size estimation aids relevant to the cognitive potential of children are necessary for an improved accuracy in dietary recall. We developed graduated realistic food models for Asian foods and tested their accuracy and precision in children. Methods Food models were constructed for nine commonly consumed food items using a range of low cost materials. These were tested among a random sample of 80 school children (aged 10-16years). A total of 719 estimations were made. Results A high percentage (68%) of correct estimations and high correlation (r>0.95, P<0.001) for estimated versus actual weight were observed. Bland-Altman analysis indicated 91% of estimations within the limits of agreement. Accuracy and precision was high for both amorphous and non-amorphous foods. Conclusions Portion size estimation using realistic food models is found to be accurate and precise and is suitable for use in children.