Acta Scientiarum Polonorum Technologia Alimentaria

Background. In many European countries a trend to eliminate milk and dairy products from everyday diet may be observed with increasing frequency. Elimination of milk and dairy products from the diet is connected with a reduced supply of calcium required for normal growth and development in children and adolescents

Material and methods. The aim of the study was to assess calcium intake related with the consumption of milk and dairy products by children and adolescents aged 10-18 years in Europe, particularly Poland. Respondents came from families of a good socio-economic position, were aware of principles of rational nutrition and could freely consume dairy products.

Results. Based on conducted investigations it was found that calcium intake by respondents in Poland was 297.2 mg/day, at a European mean of 493.6 mg/day (575.2 mg/day/person ♂, 411.9 mg/day/person ♀). Calcium supply in individual countries is not correlated with the amount of consumed milk and dairy products. The biggest amounts of milk and dairy products are consumed by children and adolescents in Croatia (1396.2 g day/person), while the lowest in Germany (378.5 g/day/person). In Poland the consumption of milk and dairy products is 413.5 g/day/person.

Conclusions. Conducted investigations showed a very low calcium intake in examined children and adolescents aged 10-18 years. These levels are too low, as they account for 38% daily calcium allowance recommended by WHO/FAO for this age group, amounting to 1300 mg/day/person.