Effect of supplements on the nutrient intake of children.

Daily intakes of nutrients were calculated from records of food eaten at home, as school lunches, and morning milk, of boys and girls in second and sixth grades. Vitamin/mineral supplementations were also calculated. Comparisons were made (with and without supplementation) with the Recommended Dietary Allowances (RDAs). Analyses of variance between sexes and between grade levels showed second graders consumed better diets than sixth and boys better diets than girls. Although many received supplements, intakes of several nutrients were below the 67 per cent level. The milk program played a significant role in calcium consumption. Excessive amounts of vitamin A and ascorbic acid were consumed by some children.