If energy intake is low (<8.368 MJ/day), for example, in the case of young

children, sedentary women, or the elderly, the diet may not provide sufficient

amounts of vitamins and minerals to meet RNIs. This situation may be of

special relevance to the elderly, who are inactive, have decreased lean body

mass, and typically decrease their energy intake. Young children, pregnant

women, and lactating women who have greater micronutrient needs

relative to their energy needs will also require an increased micronutrient

density.

The household is the basic unit in which food is consumed in most settings.

If there is sufficient food, individual members of the household can

consume a diet with the recommended nutrient densities (RNDs) and meet

their specific RNIs. However, appropriate food distribution within the family

must be considered to ensure that children and women receive adequate food

with high micronutrient density. Household food distribution must be considered

when establishing general dietary guidelines and addressing the needs

of vulnerable groups in the community. In addition, education detailing the

appropriate storage and processing of foods to reduce micronutrient losses at