GLOSSARY

Calories per Serving The declared food energy in the label's stated serving, multiplied appropriately when more than one serving is eaten.

Food-label reference values support product comparison within the applicable labeling system. A percentage refers to a stated amount of food and a reference value; it is not a measurement of the eater's personal requirement. Check serving size, servings consumed and whether the panel is per serving or per mass. Label rules and permitted claims differ between jurisdictions. An athlete may need more carbohydrate or energy than the generic reference, while a large micronutrient percentage does not automatically improve performance or justify additional supplements.

Dietary reference systems distinguish average requirements, recommended intakes, adequate intakes and upper limits. Their meaning depends on the authority, population, life stage and nutrient. An average requirement is intended to meet the needs of about half of a specified healthy group, whereas a recommended allowance covers nearly all. These are not interchangeable with food-label values. For an athlete, identify the reference system first, then consider whether training or clinical circumstances require an individualized assessment beyond that population framework.

An adequate intake is used when evidence is insufficient to establish an average requirement and a recommended allowance. Intake at or above that value can support a judgment of adequacy, but intake below it does not establish the probability of inadequacy. An upper intake level concerns risk of adverse effects, not an intake goal. Its scope may include all sources or only specified forms. Check the nutrient-specific definition before combining food, fortified products and supplements in an athlete's intake review.