List the uses and the limitations of Recommended dietary allowances (RDA)

Uses of RDA
1. Evaluating the adequacy of the national food supply; setting goals for food
production.
2. Setting standards for menu planning for publicly funded nutritional programs
e.g. school feeding programs.
3. Establishing nutrition policy for public assistance, nursing homes and
institutions.
4. Interpreting the adequacy of diets in food consumption studies.
5. Developing materials for nutrition education.
6. Setting patterns for normal diets in hospital.
7. Establishing labeling regulations.
8. Setting guidelines for formulation of new products or the fortification of
specific foods.

Limitations and misuse of RDA
1. They are complex for direct use by consumers.
2. They do not state ideal or optimal levels of intakes.
3. Allowances for some age categories e.g. adolescents and elderly are based on limited data.
4. Data on food content of some nutrients especially the trace minerals are limited.
5. They do not evaluate nutritional status.
6. They may not apply to sick people.

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Titany answered the question on November 5, 2021 at 07:52