The National Food Consumption Survey IV SCAI: Nutrient Intakes and Related Dietary Sources in Italy

Background/Objectives: The Fourth Italian National Food Consumption Survey (IV SCAI 2017-2020) provides updated and comprehensive data on the dietary habits of the Italian population. The study aimed to assess nutrient intakes and their main food sources among individuals aged 3 months to 74 years and to evaluate the adequacy of intakes against the Italian dietary reference values (DRVs). Methods: A nationally representative sample of 1969 participants were surveyed using two non-consecutive food diaries (ages 3 months-9 years) and 24 h recalls (ages 10-74 years) in accordance with the European Food Safety Authority's EU Menu guideline. The multiple source method was used to estimate the usual intakes accounted for intra-individual variability. Nutrient adequacy was assessed against age- and sex-specific DRVs, and the main food sources of macro- and micronutrients were identified. Results: Energy intake was below DRVs for adults, particularly women, while protein intake exceeded recommendations across all ages, mainly from animal sources (67% of total). Total fat (38%En) and saturated fat (12%En) exceeded the recommendations, whereas carbohydrates (45%En) and dietary fibre were suboptimal. Vitamin D and calcium intake were markedly below DRVs for all age groups; iron inadequacy was prevalent among females. The main energy sources were cereals (39%), milk and dairy (15%), oils and fats (13%), and meat (10%). Vegetables and fruits were leading contributors to vitamins A and C, while meat, fish, and dairy provided vitamin B12 and D. Conclusions: The Italian diet remains cereal-based but shows nutritional imbalances: notably, excessive protein and fat intake and widespread deficiencies in vitamin D, calcium, iron, and fibre. These findings underline the need for targeted nutrition policies to realign dietary patterns with the national recommendations.