Thai FDA RDI: A Guide to Nutrition Standards in Thailand
The Thai Food and Drug Administration (Thai FDA) has established the Thai Reference Daily Intakes (Thai FDA RDI) to provide clear nutritional benchmarks for food labeling and dietary planning. These values are essential for guiding both consumers and businesses in Thailand, aiming to promote better nutrition and health among the population. This guide explores the details of Thai RDIs, their implementation, and how they shape the food and supplement industries.
What Are Thai FDA RDI?
Thai RDIs were introduced through Ministry of Public Health Announcement No. 445, which aligns with global nutrition guidelines such as the Codex Alimentarius Commission’s Nutrient Reference Values (NRVs). These RDIs are calculated based on a daily energy intake of 2,000 kilocalories, reflecting the nutritional requirements of healthy individuals aged three and above. However, they are not intended for infants, children under three, pregnant women, or individuals with specific medical conditions, as these groups require specialized dietary guidelines.
Thai RDIs serve multiple purposes, including:
- Nutrition Labeling: They standardize food labeling, enabling consumers to make informed dietary choices.
- Public Health Policy: RDIs guide government initiatives like food fortification programs.
- Product Development: Manufacturers use RDIs to formulate products that meet regulatory standards and consumer needs.
Key Nutritional Values in Thai RDIs
The following table highlights the Thai FDA RDI values for macronutrients, vitamins, and minerals:
| Nutrient | Thai RDI |
|---|---|
| Macronutrients | |
| Total Fat | 65 g |
| Saturated Fat | 20 g |
| Cholesterol | 300 mg |
| Protein | 50 g |
| Total Carbohydrates | 300 g |
| Dietary Fiber | 25 g |
| Sodium | 2,000 mg |
| Vitamins | Thai RDI |
| Vitamin A | 800 µg RAE |
| Vitamin C | 100 mg |
| Vitamin D | 15 µg |
| Vitamin E | 15 mg alpha-TE |
| Vitamin K | 80 µg |
| Vitamin B1 | 1.2 mg |
| Vitamin B2 | 1.2 mg |
| Vitamin B6 | 1.3 mg |
| Vitamin B12 | 2.4 µg |
| Folate (Folic Acid) | 400 µg |
| Niacin (Vitamin B3) | 16 mg NE |
| Pantothenic Acid | 5 mg |
| Biotin | 30 µg |
| Minerals | Thai RDI |
| Calcium | 1,000 mg |
| Iron | 22 mg |
| Magnesium | 350 mg |
| Zinc | 11 mg |
| Potassium | 3,500 mg |
| Phosphorus | 1,000 mg |
| Copper | 900 µg |
| Manganese | 2.3 mg |
| Selenium | 55 µg |
| Chromium | 35 µg |
| Iodine | 150 µg |
| Molybdenum | 45 µg |
Maximum Limits for Dietary Supplements
In addition to the general RDIs, the Thai FDA has implemented specific maximum limits for vitamins and minerals in dietary supplements, effective from July 2, 2024. These limits are designed to prevent overconsumption, which can lead to adverse health effects. The table below outlines these maximum values:
| Vitamins and Minerals | Lowest Value | Maximum Value |
| Vitamin A | 120 µg RE | 800 µg RAE |
| Vitamin D | 2.25 µg | 15 µg |
| Vitamin E | 1.35 mg alpha-TE | 10 mg alpha-TE |
| Vitamin K | 9 µg | 80 µg |
| Vitamin B1 | 0.18 mg | 100 mg |
| Vitamin B2 | 0.18 mg | 40 mg |
| Vitamin B6 | 0.195 mg | 2 mg |
| Vitamin B12 | 0.36 µg | 600 µg |
| Folate (Folic Acid) | 60 µg | 330 µg DFE |
| Niacinamide | 2.25 mg NE | 20 mg NE |
| Calcium | 150 mg | 800 mg |
| Iron | 3.3 mg | 15 mg |
| Magnesium | 46.5 mg | 350 mg |
| Zinc | 1.65 mg | 15 mg |
| Potassium | 525 mg | 3,500 mg |
| Selenium | 9 µg | 70 µg |
| Chromium | 5.25 µg | 500 µg |
| Iodine | 22.5 µg | 150 µg |
| Molybdenum | 6.75 µg | 160 µg |
Why Are Thai FDA RDI Important?
The establishment of Thai RDIs serves multiple roles:
- Promoting Public Health: By providing clear guidelines, RDIs help combat malnutrition and diet-related health issues.
- Empowering Consumers: Nutrition labels based on RDIs enable individuals to make healthier food choices.
- Regulatory Compliance: Businesses must adhere to these standards to gain approval for food and supplement products in Thailand.
Conclusion
The Thai FDA RDIs are a cornerstone of Thailand’s public health strategy, setting the foundation for better nutrition and dietary awareness. For businesses and consumers alike, understanding these guidelines is crucial. By aligning with the Thai FDA RDI values, Thailand ensures a healthier future for its population and maintains its position as a leader in nutritional standards within Southeast Asia.
On same topic: https://www.siamdevelopment.com/thailands-new-nutrition-label-insights-from-moph-notification-445/
Thailand’s New Nutrition Label: Insights from Ministry of Public Health Notification 445
