Iron, zinc, and manganese intake among elementary schoolchildren aged 6-11 years in South Korea

Objective: This study set out to appraise the intake amount of Fe, Zn, and Mn among elementary schoolchildren. Methods: In this study, 1,320 elementary schoolchildren aged between 6 and 11 were evaluated. Their daily nutritional intake status of Fe, Zn, and Mn was evaluated by comparison with Korean Dietary Reference Intakes (KDRIs). Results: Intake of Fe and Zn was 138.4% and 140.8% of the recommended nutrient intakes (RNI), respectively, and the intake of Mn was 154.1% of the adequate intake (AI). The proportions of participants with mean daily intake of Zn and Mn less than the tolerable upper intake (UL) was 21.7% and 50.2% for each mineral. Conclusions: In conclusion, the average intake of Fe, Zn, and Mn in Korean elementary schoolchildren satisfied the DRIs. In the future, a study will be necessary to identify appropriate DRIs and to assess the utilization rate with biochemical levels based on the intake of microminerals from various sources.