Daily Intake Guide
What is the Daily Intake Guide?
The Daily Intake Guide or %DI is a set of reference values for an acceptable intake of a set of nutrients including:
- Energy
- Protein
- Fat
- Saturated fat
- Carbohydrate
- Sodium
- Sugars
- Dietary fibre
%DI is based on the recommended amounts of energy and nutrients needed for an average adult diet to meet their nutritional needs. The percentages are calculated based on the below figures:
| Nutrient | Reference Value used in %DI |
| Energy | 8700 kJ |
| Protein | 50 g |
| Fat | 70 g |
| Saturated fatty acids | 24 g |
| Carbohydrate | 310 g |
| Sodium | 2300 mg |
| Sugars | 90 g |
| Dietary fibre | 30 g |
As these figures are based on an average adult diet, you may need more or less than the above figures and this will vary based on your age, height, weight, sex and how much activity or exercise you do.
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Tick the box that most applies to you to find out if you need more or less: |
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You can also calculate your %DI for energy at the My Daily Intake Website. Visit our Helpful Links section to find this link.
How do I use the Daily Intake Guide
You can use %DI labels to find out what is in a serve and the percentage that the serve will contribute to your daily intake. You can also use the %DI to compare similar products so that you can choose the product that more closely matches the nutrients that you need. For example, if you are trying to lose weight, you would choose the product with the lowest percent for energy, highest fibre and lowest saturated fat.
For individualised advice on using the %DI or calculating the %DI to meet your nutritional needs look no further than an Accredited Practising Dietitian.
