Daily Value

Definition

Daily Value (DV) is a reference value used on food labels to help consumers understand the nutritional content of a food item in the context of a total daily diet. It indicates how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet, based on a standard daily intake of 2,000 calories, which is commonly used for general nutrition advice. The DV helps consumers gauge if a food is high or low in specific nutrients, facilitating healthier choices.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The Daily Value for each nutrient is established by health authorities and can vary depending on age, sex, and life stage.
2. Nutrients listed with a Daily Value of 5% or less are considered low, while those with 20% or more are considered high.
3. DVs are updated periodically based on new scientific research and dietary guidelines, which can change over time.
4. The Daily Values are designed for general guidance and may not be appropriate for all individuals, especially those with specific health conditions or dietary needs.
5. Food manufacturers must comply with labeling regulations that include Daily Values to ensure consumers have access to consistent nutritional information.

Review Questions

• How does the Daily Value help consumers make informed dietary choices?
  • The Daily Value provides context for the nutritional content of food items by showing how much a serving contributes to the overall daily diet. This helps consumers quickly assess whether a food is high or low in specific nutrients and allows them to make healthier choices. By comparing the percent Daily Value listed on labels, individuals can better manage their nutrient intake based on their dietary needs.
• Discuss how the Daily Value might change for different populations and why this is important.
  • The Daily Value can differ among various populations due to factors like age, sex, and life stages such as pregnancy or lactation. For instance, pregnant women may require higher amounts of certain nutrients like folic acid compared to others. Understanding these differences is crucial for creating tailored dietary recommendations and ensuring that specific populations receive adequate nutrition based on their unique requirements.
• Evaluate the role of Daily Values in public health nutrition policies and their potential impact on consumer behavior.
  • Daily Values play a significant role in shaping public health nutrition policies by providing standardized metrics for nutrient intake. This consistency helps promote better nutritional literacy among consumers and encourages healthier eating habits by making it easier to identify nutritious foods. As people become more aware of how DVs relate to their diets, they may be more likely to choose foods that align with recommended nutrient intakes, ultimately leading to improved public health outcomes.

Related terms

Nutritional Labeling: A system that provides information about the nutritional content of food products, including serving size, calories, and nutrients.

Recommended Dietary Allowance (RDA): The average daily dietary intake level sufficient to meet the nutrient requirements of nearly all healthy individuals in a specific life stage and gender group.

Percent Daily Value: A percentage that shows how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet based on the Daily Value, helping consumers compare products.