Recommended Daily Intakes

What Are Recommended Daily Intakes?

Recommended Daily Intakes are scientifically established reference values representing required daily nutrient consumption to maintain health and prevent deficiency. These values serve as benchmarks for:

• Nutrition Labeling: Helping consumers understand how foods contribute to their daily nutritional needs
• Public Health Guidance: Informing dietary recommendations and national nutrition programs
• Product Development: Guiding food manufacturers in fortification and reformulation efforts
• Clinical Practice: Supporting healthcare professionals in patient counseling and meal planning
• Consumer Education: Enabling people to make informed dietary choices

Regulatory Framework

United States of America

Regulatory Authority: Food and Drug Administration (FDA)

Key Features:

• Distinguishes between RDI (micronutrients) and DRV (macronutrients) for labeling
• Based on 2,000 calorie reference diet for adults
• Updates implemented in 2020 reflecting current nutrition science

Scientific Basis: National Institutes of Health (NIH) - Dietary Reference Intakes

For comprehensive US FDA daily value requirements, see FDA Daily Values.

Related Concepts

• Nutrient - Understanding the different types of nutrients
• FDA Daily Values - US-specific RDI and DRV standards
• Nutrition Fact - How nutrients appear on food labels
• Serving Size - Standardized quantities for nutrition labeling

Official Resources

• FDA - Daily Value on Nutrition Labels
• NIH Office of Dietary Supplements - Dietary Reference Intakes
• 21 CFR 101.9 - Nutrition Labeling of Food