The objective of this study is to define an attainable high-level food consumption for the United States and to estimate the quantities of food involved. The definition of high-level food consumption developed here takes into account two principal considerations: (1) What foods people need nutritionally to sustain good health and (2) what foods people would like to consume as indicated by consumption in the higher income brackets. In brief, the measure of high-level food consumption for each individual is simply the higher rate of consumption obtained in comparison and the minimum nutritional requirement.

Abstract: The Nationwide Food Consumption Survey, 1977-78 (NFCS) for households in the Northeast is summarized. Findings include: an average of $69 a week is spent for food; 80% of the households purchased meals or between-meal snacks away from home; the largest share of the at home fooddollar (37 cents) went for animal protein, 19 cents for vegetables and fruits (including juice), 12 cents for dairy products other than butter, 11 cents for grains and cereals,11 cents for beverages, 6 cents for fats and sweets, and 4 for cents miscellaneous foods. Average at-home consumption figures are given. Food values varied within the 4 regions studied as did urbanization features and income levels. All findings are compared to the NCFS. (kbc).