What is the difference between a serving size and a portion size?

• A. Portion size is standardized while serving size is not
• B. Serving size is a recommendation; portion size is actual intake
• C. Portion size is based on dietary guidelines only
• D. There is no difference between the two

Answer: (B)

The distinction between serving size and portion size is crucial for understanding nutritional labeling and dietary habits. Serving size refers to the recommended amount of food, as specified on food packaging or by dietary guidelines. This is a standardized measurement designed to help individuals understand how much of a particular food they should consume to meet nutritional needs.

In contrast, portion size is the actual amount of food that a person chooses to consume at a given time. This can vary widely depending on personal preferences, cultural practices, and social contexts. It's common for individuals to oversize their portion compared to the recommended serving size, which can lead to discrepancies in nutritional intake.

The correct answer highlights that serving size serves as a guideline or recommendation, while portion size reflects the real-world consumption, which can differ significantly based on individual choices and circumstances. Understanding this difference is essential for effective nutrition counseling and promoting healthy eating habits.