Technology-based methods of dietary assessment: recent developments and considerations for clinical practice

PURPOSE OF REVIEW: The objective of this review is to provide an overview of recent findings in technology-based methods for the collection and analysis of dietary information, and explore the potential implications of these technologies for dietary assessment in a clinical setting. RECENT FINDINGS: Numerous technology-based methods for dietary assessment have emerged in recent years. These methodologies have the potential to enhance the dietary assessment process, and overall appear to yield valid results in a wide variety of populations. However, as is the case with the existing technologies they are designed to replace, none is error free and each has its own unique limitations. Therefore, the decision to incorporate one of these methodologies into clinical practice should only be made after a thorough evaluation of the methodology and with specific outcome goals in mind. SUMMARY: Evidence supporting the emerging role of technology-based methods for dietary assessment is growing. As technological advances move rapidly forward it is important to consider a theoretical foundation to help guide the translation of these innovations into routine use in clinical practice.