"Serving" and "portion" are not the same.

• Position: Diet

How much is a serving? Is it the same as a portion? Are restaurant meals getting bigger, especially compared to those you make at home? How are people supposed to know how much to eat, anyway? "In an era of super-sized meals, many consumers are confused, not only about things like the difference between a serving and a portion, but also about the amounts of food they believe they should eat, both at home and while dining out" says American Dietetic Association spokesperson Sheah Rarback, a registered dietician.

According to the results of the ADA's latest nationwide public opinion survey, Americans tend to overestimate the recommended serving sizes for many foods. For example, fewer than half of the respondents accurately estimated the recommended serving sizes of cooked pasta, lean meat, or vegetables. "With so many new scientific studies coming out all the time, and with often-conflicting nutrition advice coming at people from all directions, people need help in estimating serving sizes and tailoring portions--at home and in restaurants--that are best for them. Also, many restaurants and other food service providers have increased portion sizes to improve the perceived `price-value ratio.' This in turn may influence consumers' perceptions of what a portion or serving are."

While the terms serving and portion often are used interchangeably, Rarback points out that they actually mean different things. "A serving is the amount recommended in consumer...