Technical Abstract: Objective: To determine the effect of improved food composition data on nutrient intake estimates in the U.S. Methods: The dietary intake data from the Continuing Survey of Food Intake by Individuals 1994-96, 98 was processed using the Survey Nutrient Database, 1994-96, 1998 version to produce weighted, mean nutrient intake estimates. The data was reanalyzed with the multi-year version of the Food and Nutrient Database for Dietary Studies (FNDDS), wherein the data improvements replaced the older values to produce revised nutrient intake estimates. The multi-year FNDDS is a component of the USDA's Trends Analysis System. Mean differences between the old and revised estimates were determined. Results: Improved food composition data resulted in minor but statistically significant (p=0.001) difference in mean intake estimates for most nutrients. Nutrients or food components with greatest differences include - vitamin C, riboflavin, magnesium, and caffeine. As a result of these changes, 4-7% more adults have inadequate intakes of vitamin C and magnesium. Caffeine intakes were lower by about 25%. Changes in the food composition values for fluid milk, coffee, tomatoes, and mixtures appear to have had the most impact. Significance: The USDA Trends Analysis System enables quantification of differences in intakes due to improved food composition data with relative ease. The multi-year version of the FNDDS is available to researchers for use in their research.