The Food Safety Authority of Ireland (FSAI) has published its first scientific dietary recommendations specifically for adolescents aged 9–18 years, advising that plant-based dairy replacement foods and beverages are generally not recommended for this age group because of their nutritional composition and the need for additional calcium and other micronutrients.
Developed by the FSAI Scientific Committee, the report provides food-based dietary guidance designed to support healthy growth and development during adolescence. It recognises that nutritional needs vary significantly according to age, sex, body size, physical activity and the timing of puberty. <Cite refs={["turn889219search0","turn889219search4"]}/>
Dairy Recommended to Support Calcium Requirements
The guidance recommends four to five servings per day from the milk, yoghurt and cheese food group to help adolescents meet their calcium requirements. Four servings are recommended for sedentary or less-active adolescents, increasing to five servings for those who are moderately to very active.
Where plant-based dairy alternatives are required, the FSAI recommends a calcium-fortified soya beverage for males and products fortified with both calcium and iodine for females. The recommendations highlight the importance of selecting alternatives carefully rather than assuming that all plant-based beverages provide nutrition equivalent to dairy milk. <Cite refs={["turn889219search2","turn889219search3"]}/>
Protein Supplements Not Necessary for Most Teenagers
The report also addresses growing interest in high-protein diets among young people. According to the FSAI, protein requirements can be met through a balanced diet, even with reduced meat consumption.
Protein powders, shakes and supplementary drinks are considered unnecessary for meeting adolescent protein requirements under the dietary patterns assessed in the report.
The authority also emphasises the importance of carbohydrates, including cereals, bread, potatoes, pasta and rice, as key sources of energy for growth and physical activity. Average requirements range from six to ten servings daily, with some adolescents needing up to 13 servings depending on their energy requirements.
Vitamin D, Fish and Overall Dietary Balance
The recommendations include eating oily fish once a week to improve intake of omega-3 fatty acids DHA and EPA. They also advise all adolescents to continue taking a vitamin D food supplement, with the required amount depending on factors such as age, ethnicity and time of year.
The report highlights the importance of reducing excessive saturated fat, free sugar and salt intake while choosing nutritious foods that support development. It also recommends a daily 400-microgram folic acid supplement for women of childbearing age, including adolescents who could become pregnant. <Cite refs={["turn889219search4","turn889219search2"]}/>
Implications for the Dairy Industry
The recommendations provide a significant reference point for dairy producers, nutrition professionals and food-service providers working with young people. They reinforce the nutritional role of milk, yoghurt and cheese in meeting calcium requirements during a period of rapid growth and bone development.
For manufacturers of plant-based beverages, the guidance also highlights the importance of nutrient fortification and clear product information. However, the recommendations are specific to adolescents living in Ireland and should not be interpreted as a universal dietary rule for every age group or country.
The report notes that adolescence is a critical period for long-term health, with approximately 40% of adult bone mass accumulated during these years. Its central message is that dietary guidance should reflect individual nutritional needs while ensuring that young people receive sufficient energy and essential nutrients for healthy development.
Source: Dairynews7x7 14 Oct, 2026 Read full story here
#DairyIndustry #DairyNutrition #FSAI #PlantBasedDairy #AdolescentNutrition #MilkNutrition #DairyNews7x7
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