Summary
This joint FAO/WHO technical report provides the authoritative international reference for vitamin and mineral requirements across the human life course, drawing on systematic review of available evidence as of the early 2000s. It establishes reference values used by governments, public health bodies, and nutrition policy makers worldwide to set dietary guidelines and assess population-level nutritional adequacy. The report covers deficiency risks, dietary sources, bioavailability considerations, and upper safety thresholds for a broad range of micronutrients.
UK applicability
The report is applicable to UK nutrition policy as a foundational international reference, though the UK uses its own Dietary Reference Values (DRVs) developed by SACN, which may differ from FAO/WHO figures for certain nutrients; practitioners should cross-reference with current SACN guidance.
Key measures
Recommended Nutrient Intakes (RNIs); Estimated Average Requirements (EARs); Tolerable Upper Intake Levels (ULs); nutrient reference values for vitamins A, C, D, E, K, B-group vitamins, calcium, iron, zinc, selenium, magnesium, iodine, and folate
Outcomes reported
The report establishes recommended nutrient intakes (RNIs), estimated average requirements, and tolerable upper intake levels for a comprehensive range of vitamins and minerals across different population groups including infants, children, adults, and pregnant or lactating women.
Topic tags
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