Energy and nutrient calculations using an Optical Character Reader system

Abstract

A new application of the Optical Character Reader (OCR) system for dietary data tabulation has been presented. Comparison of the reproducibility of energy and nutrient values, when hand calculation, on-line computer, and OCR methods of calculation are used, revealed no significant differences. The OCR system increased turn-around time for obtaining results, but use of a clinician's time was greatly reduced in comparison to either the hand calculation or the on-line computer method. Once the initial investment for an OCR system had been made, a significant reduction was realized in the cost of a clinician's time used for energy and nutrient calculations. When the factors of reproducibility, time, and cost were considered, this study found the OCR method for dietary calculations as acceptable as either hand calculation or on-line computer methods. Clinicans using the OCR or hand calculation method did not need computer facilities, but computer keyboard terminals were required for the on-line method.