Portionsmått

Portionsmått, also known as portion size, refers to the standardized quantity of food or drink used in culinary contexts, dietary recommendations, or nutrition labeling. The concept originated in the early 20th century with the advent of food science and public health campaigns aiming to provide clear guidance on daily intake. Over time, portionsmått have been refined through research on energy density, nutrient distribution, and cultural eating patterns.

In Sweden, the Swedish National Food Agency (Livsmedelsverket) recommends specific portionsmått for key food groups: approximately 60–75 g of meat or fish, 150 g of cooked vegetables, 1–2 slices of bread, and 250 ml of milk or juice. These measurements are typically displayed on cooking demonstrations, recipe books, and grocery packaging to help consumers make informed choices. Internationally, similar guidelines exist in the United States through the Dietary Guidelines Advisory Committee, which sets serving sizes for the Food Guide Pyramid, and in Europe through the European Food Safety Authority’s portion guides.

Utilization of accurate portionsmått is crucial for managing caloric intake, preventing obesity, and ensuring balanced nutrition. Health professionals often employ portion control as a non-restrictive strategy to encourage healthier eating patterns. Digital tools—such as smartphone apps and smart kitchen scales—have expanded accessibility, allowing individuals to measure portions in real time.

Terminology encompasses related terms such as "serving size" (English) and "servings" (Swedish) or "portion" (French). While the overall principles are consistent across cultures, specific numerical values may vary to reflect dietary guidelines, cultural preferences, and culinary practices.