Knowledge of human energy and nutrient requirements is essential for the complete assessment of food supplies and nutritional needs, enabling governments to monitor nutrition programmes, and to plan development activities in general. The Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO), in conjunction with the World Health Organization (WHO) and United Nations University (UNU), organize biennial expert consultations on nutrient requirements.

The primary purpose of all expert meetings is to advise the Directors-General of FAO and WHO on scientific issues related to energy and nutrients so that appropriate recommendations for action can be formulated. The recommendations and guidelines, which result from these consultations, serve to enable governments and organizations to better plan, monitor and evaluate nutrition programs and policies.

FAO sponsors and publishes documents relating to the practical applications and uses of the requirements in the context of nutrition.

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