The Food Safety Authority of Ireland (FSAI) has published its first-ever scientific dietary recommendations for teenagers and older children (aged 9-18) in Ireland.
A new, key recommendation put forward by the report is that plant-based dairy-replacement foods and beverages are not recommended for teens “as they are not nutritionally equivalent to dairy in terms of key nutrients” such as protein and calcium.
In cases where dairy cannot be consumed, a calcium-fortified soya beverage represents the best choice for males, and calcium- and iodine-fortified brands are the best choice for females, according to the FSAI.
Number of servings
The new guidelines recommend four to five servings per day from the milk, yoghurt and cheese food group to fulfil calcium requirements, with four recommended for sedentary to low-active teens. Five servings per day are recommended for moderately active to very active teens.
The FSAI noted that teenagers with very high calorie requirements, who are very physically active, may require more servings from this group to meet their energy needs.
Dairy products are sources of protein, calcium, iodine, vitamin D, zinc and some B vitamins.
Additionally, the recommendations say that protein powders, shakes and supplementary drinks are not required to meet protein goals.
“Protein requirements were easily achieved, despite the reduction in the amounts and frequency of meat consumption,” the FSAI states.
Energy requirements
The guidelines also highlight that teenagers have high-energy requirements, and carbohydrate foods such as cereals and breads, potatoes, pasta and rice are the most important food group for fuelling physical activity.
Average requirements can range from six to 10 servings, with requirements reaching up to 13 servings for some adolescents.
It is also recommended that all teenagers take a vitamin D supplement, with the amount required dependent on the individual’s age, ethnicity and the time of year.