24-Hour Dietary Recall

Definition

The 24-hour dietary recall is a method of evaluating food intake that involves a detailed collection of everything consumed over the previous 24 hours.

How it works

Conducted by a trained dietitian, it uses food models (portion pictures) to estimate quantities. Its reliability relies on a non-directed and standardised interview. Repeated 3 times on non-consecutive days (including weekends), it gives a valid estimate of habitual intake.

Role

Evaluate actual nutritional intakes to identify deficiencies.

Examples

• Single recall sufficient for epidemiological studies
• 3 recalls necessary for individual evaluation

Recommendations

Reference method in nutritional assessment. A food diary of 3-7 days is a more precise alternative for individual assessment.

Key takeaway

A single 24-hour recall does not reflect long-term habits — at least 3 on different days are needed.

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