When are Adequate Intake levels established?

Adequate Intake (AI) levels are established primarily when there is insufficient scientific evidence to determine a Recommended Dietary Allowance (RDA) for a specific nutrient. The AI serves as a guideline that reflects the daily intake levels assumed to ensure adequate nutrition for most individuals, especially when research does not provide a solid basis for the determination of an RDA. This is particularly important for nutrients where data may be lacking, ensuring that recommendations are still available to guide dietary practices without definitive thresholds established from extensive studies.

In contrast, the establishment of AIs does not occur when there is ample scientific evidence or when food guidelines are being formed, as those situations would allow for more precise recommendations like RDAs. Additionally, while nutritional guidelines can inform athletic performance, AIs are not directly derived from performance assessments but rather focus on overall nutritional adequacy.