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Reference Intake

EU's standardized nutrient reference values for food labeling.

Definition

A set of standardized nutrient values used in the European Union for food labeling to help consumers understand the nutritional composition of food products.

How it works

Reference Intake (RI) is the European Union's term for nutrient reference values displayed on food labels as part of the Nutrition Information Regulation. These values are established based on scientific recommendations and apply to average adults and children to provide a common basis for labeling. The RI allows manufacturers to calculate the percentage of daily requirement that a food contributes, displayed as '%RI' on packaging. EU regulations specify which nutrients must display RI values and ensure consistency across member states. The RI framework helps standardize how nutritional information is presented to European consumers.

Role

Standardizes nutrient information on EU food labels to enable consistent, transparent communication of nutritional value.

Examples

  • 2000 kcal daily energy reference
  • 50 g daily protein reference
  • 260 g daily carbohydrates reference

Recommendations

Check the '%RI' values on EU food labels to assess nutrient contribution. Remember that RI values are based on average adult needs and may differ from your individual requirements. Use RI in combination with the ingredients list for complete nutritional understanding.

Key takeaway

Reference Intake provides standardized EU nutrient values for transparent food labeling.

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