Defined by COMA (Committee on Medical Aspects of Food Policy for the UK Department of Health), most recently in 1991, as being the amount of each nutrient that is sufficient to meet the needs of the majority (mean +2 standard deviations) of healthy people in a defined population, or subgroup of it. Approximately equivalent (in concept, but not necessarily in magnitude) to the US or WHO RDAs (recommended dietary amounts).
Figures, based on the needs of a healthy individual, that establish the minimum daily requirements of vitamins and minerals. Requirements of certain vitamins and minerals may differ according to factors such as age, gender, and stage of life.