What Does a Serving Size of Protein Look Like? (2024)

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updated Nov 16, 2023

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We all know that protein is important. To reach your daily recommended intake, you may be trying to eat a serving of protein-rich food at every meal. But the big question is, when it comes to protein, what exactly is a serving? Here’s what you should know about recommended servings, and how to tell at a glance what’s enough — no measuring, scales, or guides needed.

What Is a Serving Size of Protein?

The USDA and the FDA jointly determine recommended serving sizes of food based on the average amount that Americans over the age of four consume in a single seating. It’s important to understand, however, that these serving sizes are not hard-and-fast rules for food consumption.

A serving size is most importantly a measurement that allows food manufacturers to create uniform nutrition labels for consumers, so you, the consumer, can have a clear image of what that food contains. It’s then up to you to determine how much of the item you need for your own wellness and nutrition needs.

These visual cues are references to help you understand what a standard serving of common protein sources are; adjust your daily intake of these wholesome items to your own needs.

What a Serving Size of Meat and Fish Looks Like

The standard serving size for any variety of meat or fish is 3 ounces. Rather than weighing this out, the best visual indicators of this amount is roughly the size of the palm of your hand or the size of a standard deck of playing cards.

What a Serving Size of Beans, Legumes, and Grains Looks Like

1/2 cup of cooked beans, legumes, and grains is the standard serving size. To put that in perspective, a can of beans contains about 1 3/4 cup, which is over triple this serving size. Besides simply scooping 1/2 cup into a bowl, 1/2 cup is roughly the size of the front of your clenched fist.

What a Serving Size of Nut Butters Looks Like

The standard serving size of any nut or seed butter, be it peanut, almond, sunflower, or even tahini, is 2 tablespoons. This looks like a heaping dinner spoon’s worth or a generous slather on toast.

What a Serving Size of Yogurt Looks Like

A nice-sized bowl of Greek or regular yogurt is equal to the 1 cup serving size that’s noted as standard. This also roughly looks like the size of a clenched fist, which is useful if you’re a bit unsure just how much your breakfast bowls hold.

What a Serving Size of Nuts and Seeds Looks Like

Since the serving size of nuts and seeds is based on weight, the actual numbered amount can vary drastically. Generally speaking, the serving size for nuts and seeds is 1 ounce. Walnuts are heavier and larger than pistachios so just 7 come out to an ounce, while 49 shelled pistachios are the same weight.

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