Daily Value (DV)
Definition
The recommended daily intake of a nutrient as established by the FDA, used as a reference on nutrition labels to help consumers make informed food choices.
Daily Value is a reference amount of a nutrient established by the FDA for use on nutrition labels. It helps consumers understand how much of a nutrient a serving of food contributes to a total daily diet. The percentages are based on a 2,000-calorie daily diet.
On nutrition labels, 5% DV or less is considered low for a nutrient, while 20% DV or more is considered high. This quick reference helps you identify foods that are good sources of desirable nutrients (like fiber, vitamins, and minerals) and limit nutrients to moderate (like sodium, added sugars, and saturated fat).
Daily Values are set to cover the needs of most healthy people. Individual needs may differ based on age, sex, activity level, and health conditions. For example, pregnant women need higher amounts of folate and iron, while athletes may need more protein and calories than standard DVs suggest.
Related Calculators
Related Terms
Macronutrients
healthThe three categories of nutrients that provide calories and energy: protein, carbohydrates, and fat, needed by the body in large quantities.
Micronutrients
healthEssential vitamins and minerals needed by the body in small amounts for proper growth, development, and disease prevention.
Dietary Fiber
healthA type of carbohydrate that the body cannot fully digest, essential for digestive health, blood sugar regulation, and cholesterol management.
Protein
healthOne of the three macronutrients providing 4 calories per gram, essential for building and repairing muscles, tissues, enzymes, and hormones.
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