Project Number: 1235-52000-051-19
Project Type: Trust

Start Date: May 01, 2006
End Date: Apr 30, 2009

Objective:
Collaboration between BIHW and USDA-ARS will support the development of quality control materials, a national sampling program and development and use of new and existing analytical methodologies for determining Vitamins D-2, D-3, (25-OH)D-2 and (25-OH)D-3 in selected foods. These data will be incorporated into various USDA databases, including the USDA National Nutrient Database for Standard Reference.

Approach:
a) Work with BIHW to plan, conduct and evaluate the research outlined in this Agreement. b) Conduct work directed toward accomplishing the cooperative efforts of this agreement. Such activities shall include: i) Developing, characterizing and providing seven quality control materials for use in monitoring precision and accuracy of analyses of food samples for Vitamin D; ii) Initiating the development of a comprehensive method for vitamin D-2, D-3, (25-OH)D-2 and (25-OH)D-3. In the first 6 months, provide for analysis of D-2 and D-3 to support characterization of quality control materials and limited food samples. In the following year, complete development of the comprehensive method. iii) Drafting a plan for sampling foods across the nation to provide representative samples for analysis; iv) Preparing a draft plan for sample handling and analysis of selected foods for Vitamin D content; v) Initiating analysis of Vitamin D in foods; vi) Reviewing, compiling, and disseminating analytical data for Vitamin D in foods and release data in USDA database products; vii) Assigning personnel, equipment, supplies and facilities as needed to this cooperative effort. Such equipment and facilities will remain the property of USDA-ARS subject to its disposition.