This change and evolution of RDA model is, in many respects, a positive step. It demonstrates that, just as America’s information on diet and nutrition is advancing, so too are models that guide its eating habits. In fact, USDA itself has decided to update term and now refers to “RDI’s” (“Reference Daily Intake”) instead of RDA’s.

However, undermining some of this positive change is fact that many Americans are increasingly confused over what, how, and when to eat. A survey conducted by USDA in 1996 verified this fact when 40% of respondents agreed strongly with statement that “there are so many recommendations about healthy ways to eat, it’s hard to know what to believe”[ii].

One of most serious expressions of this growing dietary confusion has to do with a concept called Daily Value, or “DV”. Introduced by USDA in 1990s, DV is a dietary numerical reference that is supposed to allow people to make healthy eating choices[iii].

The philosophical idea behind DV, which is expressed as a percentage, is that it provides a very important piece of information. The DV informs consumers how much of a nutrient they are getting from a particular food item. For example, if DV label on a can of beans declares that it represents “10% of DV for fat”, then consumers can keep track of that number to know if, throughout day, how much fat they are eating[1].

However, one does not have to be a mathematician or a dietician to see that above idea begs a significant question: is this10% of DV for fat “good” or is it “bad”? In other words, should a consumer choose this source of fat because it represents a good source of fat, or avoid it for opposite reason?

It is this question that has caused so much confusion among health-conscious consumers. It has caused particular anxiety among those who are wisely ensuring that they eat recommended daily allowance for protein.

The importance of protein in diet cannot be understated. It is not simply an essential macronutrient for athletes, such as bodybuilders and runners. Protein is critical for life itself, regardless of mobility or athleticism. Among other essential functions, protein maintains and repairs muscle tissue, aids digestion, regulates chemicals, manages hormones, and produces enzymes[iv]. In extreme cases, a dangerous lack of protein actually leads to a condition called Kwashiorkor, where body cannibalizes itself[2].

A new development in nutrition research called ‘capsulized food’ aims to exceed these requirements. Pennsylvania-based Protica Research is first of what will likely be many companies dabbling in this new food frontier. Among other development initiatives on their roster, Protica Research engineers liquid foods that are ultra-compact, nutrient-dense, and above all else, very palatable. Their first product, Profect®, delivers 25 grams of protein and complete spectrum of water-soluble vitamins in less than three fluid ounces. This on-the-go nutrition has some consumers re-thinking their traditional eating habits. An examination of four fundamental requirements for food will help explain why.

NUTRIENT DENSITY

Nutrition. It is our first priority when it comes to eating. While it is not always on front of our minds when we reach for food, it is reason we eat. There are many nutrient-rich and nutrient-poor foods available to us, and we must always consume our fair share of nutrient-rich foods for sake of our health, well-being and energy level.

The challenge is that nutrient-dense foods—such as milk, eggs, fish, and chicken—are not always within arms reach. Snacks, junk food and fast food generally are. It often takes too much effort for a busy person to procure necessary vitamins and protein, and so we end up going without. This can hurt us in long run as our immune system and energy levels suffer. Studies have shown that many of so-called ‘junk food junkies’ and ‘fast food addicts’ would prefer eating nutritionally sound foods if they were within arm’s reach.

SUPPORTING BODY TRANSFORMATION GOALS For many of us, we keep a careful eye on foods we eat. Either we are trying to lose fat, gain muscle, or maintain what we have. Whether we are browsing supermarket aisles or a restaurant menu, we find ourselves looking for foods that are consistent with these goals.

For some, low-carbohydrate foods are at top of shopping list. These consumers have become more aware of health risks and weight gain associated with eating carbohydrate-rich foods. For others, low-fat foods are order of day. Still others seek a balance of proteins, carbohydrates and fats.

The common denominator in all of these diets is protein, along with supporting micronutrients, such as vitamins and minerals.

While it is possible to get vitamins and protein without fat or carbohydrates when you are cooking at home, it is a much taller order to do that in a compact transportable meal. Manufacturers like EAS and Protica Research offer high protein beverages to support any transformation goals. Protica’s Profect provides a full 25 grams of protein and complete spectrum of water-soluble vitamins. The important point for diet conscious, however, is that all of these nutrients come without cost of fat and carbohydrates. This allows your body to maintain health and energy without weighing you down with unnecessary carbohydrates or fat.

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