Acceptable Daily Intakes
Often based on very old/outdated and/or flawed research, often influenced by commercial interests.
Often only of relevance to white men or conversely, those who are not white or male (see salt).
No one is average. Age, sex, race and many other factors are involved.
Vitamin d is a great example of where the RDI/maximum daily intake is just completely wrong. As of the date of writing this (2025-09-30) the UK's NHS is still recommending an intake 10 times lower than what research concludes is needed. The NHS' advise does at least accommodate for those with darker skin.