Common Portion Sizes

What a normal portion of each food actually looks like, and the protein and calories it delivers — a more realistic view than per-100 g figures for planning meals.

FoodTypical portionProtein (g)Calories (kcal)
Chicken breast (cooked)1 breast (120 g)37198
Turkey breast (cooked)1 serving (120 g)35162
Lean beef mince, 5% (cooked)1 serving (125 g)33213
Salmon (cooked)1 fillet (130 g)33270
Tuna, canned in water1 small tin (100 g)26116
Cod (cooked)1 fillet (140 g)32147
Prawns (cooked)1 serving (100 g)2499
Pork loin (cooked)1 chop (120 g)32174
Egg (whole)1 large egg (50 g)778
Greek yoghurt (low-fat)1 pot (170 g)17100
Cottage cheese1 serving (100 g)1198
Cheddar cheese1 matchbox (30 g)8121
Whole milk1 glass (200 g)7122
Skimmed milk1 glass (200 g)770
Lentils (cooked)1 serving (150 g)14174
Chickpeas (cooked)1 serving (150 g)14246
Black beans (cooked)1 serving (150 g)14198
Kidney beans (cooked)1 serving (150 g)14191
Firm tofu1/2 block (150 g)18180
Tempeh1 serving (100 g)19192
Edamame1 serving (100 g)11121
Baked beans1/2 tin (200 g)10188
Oats (dry)1 serving (50 g)7190
Quinoa (cooked)1 serving (150 g)7180
Brown rice (cooked)1 serving (150 g)4168
Wholemeal bread1 slice (40 g)499
Pasta (cooked)1 serving (180 g)9236
Peanut butter1 tbsp (16 g)494
Almonds1 handful (28 g)6162
Peanuts1 handful (28 g)7159
Pumpkin seeds1 handful (28 g)8157
Chia seeds1 tbsp (12 g)258
Broccoli1 serving (90 g)331
Spinach1 handful (30 g)17
Potato (boiled)1 medium (150 g)3116
Banana1 medium (120 g)1107
Avocado1/2 avocado (100 g)2160

Values are approximate per-100 g reference figures from public food-composition data (USDA FoodData Central), rounded and for general guidance only — real foods vary by cut, brand and preparation.

Frequently asked questions

Why use portions instead of per 100 g?
Per-100 g figures are great for comparing foods, but you eat portions. Seeing the protein and calories in a realistic serving makes it easier to plan a day's meals.

Written and reviewed by Mathew Beale MSc Biotechnology, University of Reading.

Last reviewed: