The mineral and trace element composition in French food items and intake levels in France.

A table was made of the composition of mineral and trace elements in different classes of French food items. The P, Ca, Mg, Fe, Cu, Zn, Mn, I and Se contents of the main categories of food are presented. The mineral and trace element intakes of the average French consumer were calculated from national survey data concerning all food items purchased by households. The intakes and the sources of the different elements are given related to the energy. These results were calculated for male and female adults receiving 2700 kcal and 2000 kcal, respectively, and compared with the recommended dietary allowances (RDA). Phosphorus and calcium intakes were adequate, as was iron for men. The intakes of Mg, Cu, Mn were between 80 and 100% of the RDA. For Zn, I, Se the intakes were lower (50-80% of the RDA). The iron deficiency observed in women is serious, and the selenium deficit in men may induce real biochemical subdeficiencies with clinical consequences.