What is the FDA Daily Value for Protein?

The FDA Daily Value for Protein is 50 g for adults and children 4 years and older, per 21 CFR 101.9. On a Nutrition Facts label, a serving's %DV for protein is its amount divided by 50 g, times 100.

Protein — FDA Daily Value

The FDA Daily Value for Protein is 50 g for adults and children 4 or more years of age — a Daily Reference Value (DRV) scaled to a 2,000-calorie diet. It changes by population group; see the exact numbers below.

Population group

Daily Value

5% DV

20% DV

Adults & children 4+

50 g

2.5 g

10 g

Children 1–3 years

13 g

0.65 g

2.6 g

Pregnant & lactating

71 g

3.55 g

14.2 g

Infants 0–12 months

11 g

0.55 g

2.2 g

Source: the FDA Daily Values in 21 CFR 101.9 and the FDA's Nutrition Facts label guidance. Cross-check nutrient amounts against USDA FoodData Central.

Example

A serving with 15 g of protein provides 15 ÷ 50 × 100 = 30% DV (High).

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For informational purposes only; verify against § 101.9(c)(9). · US Nutrition Label Rules v1.3.0 · CFR snapshot 2026-02-12