What percentage of a diet should be dairy?

• A. 12
• B. 9
• C. 10
• D. 8

Answer: (C)

Proportion in a balanced diet is the key idea. Dairy foods provide important nutrients like calcium and high‑quality protein, so they should be included daily. But they are just one part of the diet, so their share should be moderate—enough to help meet calcium and protein needs without crowding out other essential foods like vegetables, fruits, grains, and other protein sources. The best choice represents that moderate share, fitting dairy in as a meaningful part of the diet without making it the dominant component. If the amount were too small, calcium needs might be hard to meet; if it were too large, other food groups could be underrepresented, and overall energy balance could be affected.