Micronutrient intakes of pre-adolescent children living in London

The aim of the current study was to report on the micronutrient intakes of a sample of pre-adolescent children from a range of socio-economic backgrounds. Eighty-five children aged 7-10 years completed 7-day weighed food diaries, which were used to assess habitual intake of selected micronutrients. Intakes were then compared with the current Department of Health reference values and the findings of the UK National Diet and Nutrition Survey for young people. These children failed to meet the reference values set by the Department of Health for zinc (73% of sample) and potassium (68% of sample), and intakes of calcium, potassium, vitamin B-12 vitamin D and folate were lower than the findings of the UK National Diet and Nutrition Survey. Among this sample, dietary changes are required to ensure that children follow a well-balanced diet for optimum health and development.