Establishing quality management systems for European food composition databases

As part of the activities of EuroFIR (European Food Information Resource Network), the scientific validation and exploitation of food composition data will be assured by a quality framework. This paper outlines the processes and procedures implemented during the initial development of this quality framework for national food composition data compilers and for laboratories generating new data. EuroFIR’s strategic quality objectives are based upon requirements of national food composition data compilers, laboratories, and users/stakeholders. To implement thorough quality principles, a range of standard procedures and tools are being developed. Elements of a quality management system include criteria for quality control and quality assurance of the compilation process and the computerised systems in which data are hosted, as well as data quality assessment models. The results and findings obtained so far for the proposed quality framework indicate that existing guidelines and standards for laboratories should be updated to meet EuroFIR requirements. The generic compilation process has been described, including the identification of critical stages of the data compilation process and standard operating procedures are being prepared. A data quality assessment system has been developed for application to all nutrients and has been tested by national compilers within the EuroFIR network. The development of the EuroFIR quality policy through open and constructive discussions among food composition data compilers, laboratories, and users, strengthens the proposed quality standards and procedures and is fundamental to improving quality of data exchanged across Europe and beyond.