In 1993, the Food and Nutrition Board of the Institute of Medicine, National Academy of Sciences (FNB), held a symposium entitled "Should the Recommended Dietary Allowances Be Revised?" A scientific review process started shortly thereafter, and has included extensive review of the literature by committees of experts from the USA and Canada, the National Academy of Sciences and Health Canada. Through the scientific review process several volumes of Dietary Reference Intakes Reports have been produced and are available from the National Academy of Sciences.

Dietary Reference Intakes reflect the current science of nutrient requirements and will replace the the Recommended Dietary Allowances (RDAs) previously used in the United States and Recommended Nutrient Intakes (RNIs) previously used in Canada. Governments are using the DRIs in the development of dietary guidance for the general population and for specific life stages and in the development and revision of nutrition policies and regulations.

To assist food, nutrition and health professionals in understanding and applying these new reference standards to their practices, the American Dietetic Association and Dietitians of Canada have collaborated to bring ADA members an in-depth education program written by an international nutrition authority and leading expert in the application and uses of DRIs - Susan Barr, PhD, RD. An expert advisory committee guided the course development, which uses proven, widely used Internet technology to deliver an interactive program suited to adult learners. The web-based format of the course, ensures a wide geographic reach, easy access, and low cost.

Course content is based on the DRI reports produced to date by the National Academy of Sciences and Health Canada.

To learn more about the development of DRIs, visit the National Academies Institute of Medicine Website at http://www4.nas.edu/IOM/IOMhome.nsf/pages/FNB+FAQ+DRI