Which dietary reference intake term defines the intake level meeting the needs of 97% of healthy people?

The Recommended Dietary Allowance (RDA) is defined as the intake level that is sufficient to meet the nutritional requirements of nearly all (97-98%) healthy individuals within a specific life stage and gender group. This measure is established to provide guidance on dietary intake levels that are adequate to ensure health and prevent deficiencies. It serves as a goal for individual dietary planning by representing a target intake level.

In contrast, the Estimated Average Requirement (EAR) reflects the average daily intake that is estimated to meet the requirement of half of the healthy individuals in a particular life stage and gender group. The Tolerable Upper Intake Level (UL) indicates the maximum daily intake unlikely to cause adverse health effects, while the Acceptable Macronutrient Distribution Range (AMDR) provides a range of intake for carbohydrates, proteins, and fats associated with reduced risk of chronic diseases while ensuring adequate intake of essential nutrients. Each of these values serves a distinct purpose in nutritional guidelines but does not aim to meet the needs of 97% of the population like the RDA does.