The Reference Daily Intake is a benchmark for nutrient intake used on nutrition labels in the United States and Canada. It represents the daily intake level of a nutrient that is considered sufficient to meet the requirements of nearly all healthy individuals in a specific life stage and gender group. For instance, a food label might indicate that a serving contains a certain percentage of the daily intake for vitamin C. This percentage helps consumers understand how much of that nutrient the serving contributes to their overall daily needs.
These values are crucial tools for informed dietary choices. They facilitate comparisons between food products, enabling individuals to select options that align with their nutritional goals. Historically, these guidelines have played a vital role in public health initiatives, helping to prevent nutrient deficiencies and promote overall well-being by providing a standardized way to assess and manage nutrient consumption. Regulatory bodies establish and update these values based on current scientific evidence.