Tips for Balanced and Healthy Eating
June 29, 2023
Portion Size
Let’s get wise on portion size! The IFIC Portion Size Toolkit helps make the concepts of serving size versus portion size clear and approachable to support more informed decision making about food and nutrition.
Key Messages
Portion size confusion is common – but clear, consistent messaging can help. These key messages are designed to help explain the differences between serving sizes and portion sizes and offer useful tools for guiding healthier, more confident choices.
- Serving sizes and portion sizes are not the same thing, though nearly half of consumers think they are.[1] Found on the Nutrition Facts Panel, serving size is defined by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration and based on a standardized amount of a food or beverage that people typically consume in one sitting.[2] Portion size is the amount of food or beverage a person actually chooses to eat or drink in one sitting.[3]
- What are some portion size guidelines to consider? Portion measurements can vary based on hunger, food type or eating occasion.[4] Using a visual tool like hand portion sizes is a simple way to help estimate portion measurements without needing a scale or measuring cups. Additionally, use MyPlate as a guide for building overall healthy and balanced meals.
Research
According to an IFIC Spotlight Survey, almost half of consumers (48%) think serving and portion size are the same thing. And for some, the distinction may not matter – 71% of people don’t want to overthink it or put strict limits on what they eat or drink. Learn more in our consumer research.
IFIC Spotlight Survey: American Perceptions On Snacking
Learn More2024 IFIC Food & Health Survey
Learn MoreIFIC Spotlight Survey: Understanding “Healthy” and the Impact of Nutrition Labeling on Food Decisions
Learn More2022 IFIC Food and Health Survey Spotlight: Snacking
Learn MoreConsumer Survey: Understanding Portion and Serving Sizes
Learn MoreInsights
Gain expert insight into portion size, including strategies for explaining serving size versus portion size in everyday conversations.
Webinars
See how the experts apply the concepts like portion measurements and serving size versus portion size in these CPE-eligible webinars.
Downloads to Share
Our downloadable resources feature visual aids, portion size guidelines and tips for estimating portions to help you clear up confusion and communicate with your audiences in a relatable way.
Portion Size vs. Serving Size
Social Media Inspiration
Effective communication can start with relatable examples. Use these visual references as inspiration for explaining the difference between portion size and serving size.
Portion Size or Serving Size
Handy Guide to Portion Size
In the News
Explore recent coverage where our team helps clarify portion sizes and what it means for everyday eating.