The distance learning tool 'Food Composition Study Guide' contributes to global capacity development in food composition

Food composition data underpin most activities in nutrition, and yet few universities and courses provide information on this topic. To address this problem, FAO/INFOODS developed a distance learning tool, the 'Food Composition Study Guide', comprising 17 modules covering all relevant topics on food composition in the form of questions, exercises and answers. It was used by 109 health and nutrition specialists and chemists in conjunction with classroom-based food composition courses, in a university setting (in a classroom-based seminar and as distance learning course), and by self-learners. The different applications were compared in terms of settings, objectives of the setting, participants, languages, modules used, modalities of use, evaluation by users, assessment of users, and lessons learnt. The Study Guide was useful for teachers to prepare lectures and to carry out courses; and for learners to acquire, deepen and elaborate their knowledge and skills in food composition. It proved successful in all settings. The Study Guide is a good means to fill the existing global training gap in food composition and can be used in universities, courses and by self-learners, either as distance learning or in classrooms. This will be enhanced through French and Spanish translation and distribution through Internet and CD.