Which of the following counts as one serving of fruit according to the dietary guidelines?

One serving of fruit can vary in form, but according to dietary guidelines, all the listed options are recognized as valid representations of a single serving.

A cup of fresh fruit is a straightforward measurement and represents the whole fruit in its natural state, providing essential vitamins, minerals, and dietary fiber.

Similarly, a cup of 100% fruit juice is also counted as one serving, as it delivers the nutrients typically found in whole fruits, though it lacks dietary fiber due to the processing involved.

Dried fruit, which is concentrated in sugars and nutrients due to the removal of water, is also counted as a serving, with the measurement typically set at a half-cup because of its higher calorie density compared to fresh fruit.

By recognizing all these forms as serving equivalents, the guidelines encourage variety in fruit consumption, supporting a balanced diet while ensuring that individuals can meet their daily fruit intake recommendations in flexible and accessible ways. This holistic perspective allows for different preferences and lifestyles to be accommodated within the framework of healthy eating.