Development of an AI-Driven Computational Framework for Integrated Dietary Pattern Assessment: A Simulation-Based Proof-of-Concept Study

<b>Background/Objectives</b>: Contemporary food systems face dual imperatives of ensuring nutritional adequacy while minimizing environmental resource consumption, yet conventional dietary assessment methodologies inadequately integrate these competing objectives. This simulation-based proof-of-concept study developed an artificial intelligence-driven computational framework synthesizing nutritional evaluation, environmental footprint quantification, and economic accessibility assessment. <b>Methods</b>: The analytical architecture integrated random forest classification, dimensionality reduction, and scenario-based optimization across a simulated population cohort of 1500 individuals. Food composition data encompassed 55 representative foods across eight categories linked with greenhouse gas emissions, water use, and price parameters. Four dietary patterns (Mediterranean, Western, Plant-based, Mixed) were characterized across nutrient adequacy, greenhouse gas emissions, water consumption, and economic cost. <b>Results</b>: Random forest classification achieved 39.1% accuracy, with cost, greenhouse gas emissions, and water consumption emerging as the most discriminating features. Dietary patterns exhibited convergent macronutrient profiles (protein 108.8-112.8 g per day, 4% variation) despite categorical distinctions, while calcium inadequacy pervaded all patterns (867-927.5 mg per day, 7-13% below requirements). Environmental footprints demonstrated limited differentiation (greenhouse gas 3.73-3.96 kg CO₂e per day, 6% range). Bootstrap resampling (<i>n</i> = 1000) confirmed narrow confidence intervals, with NHANES validation revealing substantial energy intake deviations (38-58% above observed means) attributable to adequacy-prioritized design rather than observed consumption patterns. Scenario modeling identified seasonally flexible dietary configurations maintaining micronutrient and protein adequacy while reducing water use to 87% of baseline at modest cost increases. <b>Conclusions</b>: This framework establishes a validated computational infrastructure for integrated dietary assessment benchmarked against sustainability thresholds and epidemiological reference data, demonstrating the feasibility of AI-driven evaluation of dietary patterns across nutritional, environmental, and economic dimensions.