What are Daily Values on nutrition labels intended to represent?

Daily Values on nutrition labels are designed to represent the daily nutritional needs for an average consumer, which serves as a guideline to help individuals understand how a specific food fits into their overall daily diet. These values are based on a 2,000-calorie diet and refer to key nutrients, including vitamins, minerals, fats, and others. By using Daily Values, consumers can assess the nutritional content of a food item and make informed choices regarding their dietary intake, helping them maintain a balanced and healthy diet. This framework enables individuals to determine the proportion of their daily nutrient requirements they are obtaining from a particular food or serving size.