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Recommended Servings for Adults

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Recommended Servings for Adults

The chart below shows the USDA MyPlate recommendations for each food group. These amounts are for adults who need 1,600 to 2,400 calories a day.

Recommended amounts
Food groupAmount needed each day
Grains5 to 8 ounces. 1 ounce is equal to: 1 slice of bread; 1 small (6-inch) tortilla; 1 cup of dry cereal; 1/2 cup of cooked rice, cooked pasta, or cooked cereal.
Vegetables2 to 3 cups. 1 cup is equal to: 1 cup of raw or cooked vegetables; 2 cups of raw, leafy greens; 1 cup (8 fl oz) vegetable juice.
Fruits1½ cups to 2 cups. 1 cup is equal to: 1 cup of fresh, frozen, or canned fruit; 1 small apple; 1 large orange or 1 large banana; 1 cup (8 fl oz) 100% fruit juice; 1/2 cup of dried fruit.
Dairy3 cups. 1 cup is equal to: 1 cup (8 fl oz) milk or yogurt; 1½ ounces of hard cheese; 1/3 cup of shredded cheese; 1 ounce of processed cheese.
Protein foods5 to 6½ ounces. 1 ounce is equal to: 1 ounce of meat, poultry, or fish; 1 egg; 1 tablespoon of peanut butter; 1/2 ounce of nuts (12 almonds or 7 walnut halves); 1/4 cup of cooked beans, peas, or lentils; 1/4 cup of tofu.

Credits

Current as of: October 7, 2025

Author: Ignite Healthwise, LLC Staff
Clinical Review Board
All Ignite Healthwise, LLC education is reviewed by a team that includes physicians, nurses, advanced practitioners, registered dieticians, and other healthcare professionals.

This information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Ignite Healthwise, LLC, disclaims any warranty or liability for your use of this information. Your use of this information means that you agree to the Terms of Use. Learn how we develop our content.

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This information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Ignite Healthwise, LLC, disclaims any warranty or liability for your use of this information. Your use of this information means that you agree to the Terms of Use. Learn how we develop our content.

NOTICE: This health information was not created by Columbia University Irving Medical Center and may not necessarily reflect specific CUIMC practices. For medical advice to your personal condition, please consult your doctor. Medical advice disclaimer.