Myth #1: The chosen energy value of 8700 kJ used in the Daily Intake Guide is for an adult male.

Reality Check:  It is less than the value required for most men and women over 19 who are active enought to work or move around. 

See table below on Estimated Energy Requirements of Adults Using Predicted MBR X PAL from the Nutrient Reference Values for Australia and New Zealand, Department of Health and Ageing 2006:

The value of 8700 kJ is prescribed in the Food Standards Code and is described as an average adult value. 

Extract from Food Standards Code 1.2.8:

Sub Clause 7:
     7 Percentage daily intake information
          (1) Information relating to the percentage daily intake of nutrients set out in
               a nutrition information panel may be included in the panel.
          (2) Where percentage daily intake information is included in a panel –
               (a) the percentage daily intake of dietary fibre may be included in
                    the panel; and
               (b) the following matters must be included in the panel –
                    (i) the percentage daily intake of energy, fat, saturated fatty acids,
                        carbohydrate, sugars, protein and sodium; and
                    (ii) the statement –
                               *Percentage daily intakes are based on an average adult diet
                                 of 8700 kJ. Your daily intakes may be higher or lower
                                 depending upon your energy needs.
          (3) The percentage daily intakes of the food components listed in column 1
                of the Table to this sub clause that are included in the panel, must be
                calculated using the corresponding reference value specified in
                column 2.