How to Judge Size of Servings

Some foods are weighed in ounces. Some are measured in spoons or cups. Others, like fruits, are based on an average, or medium, size. Below are some serving sizes and tips to help you judge just what 1 serving looks like.

 

Ounces

• A serving of meat, poultry, or fish is 2 to 3 ounces.

• A serving of natural cheese is 1¹/2 ounces. A serving of processed cheese is 2 ounces.

 

 

 

A Medium-Sized Piece

• A serving of fresh, whole fruit is 1 medium-sized piece.

• A serving of melon is one 2-inch slice.

 

 

 

   Tablespoons and Teaspoons

• A serving of peanut butter is 2 tablespoons.

• A serving of salad dressing is 1 tablespoon.

• A serving of fat, oil, or sugar is 1 teaspoon.

 

 

 

   Cups

• A serving of these foods is ¹/2 cup: cooked cereal, rice, dried beans, or pasta; cooked or chopped raw vegetables; chopped, cooked, or canned fruit.

• A serving of vegetable or fruit juice is ³/4 cup.

• A serving of these foods is 1 cup: raw, leafy vegetables, berries, milk, or yogurt.

• A serving of ready-to-eat cereal is ¹/2 cup,  ³/4 cup, or 1 cup. The "Nutrition Facts" label tells you just how much 1 serving is.