§ 3178a — Nutrition Monitoring

The Secretary of Agriculture shall— (1) in conducting the Department of Agriculture’s continuing survey of food intakes of individuals and any nationwide food consumption survey, include a sample that is representative of low-income individuals and, to the extent practicable, the collection of information on food purchases and other household expenditures by such individuals; (2) to the extent practicable, continue to maintain the nutrient data base established by the Department of Agriculture; and (3) encourage research by public and private entities relating to effective standards, methodologies, and technologies for accurate assessment of the nutritional and dietary status of individuals.