How much is a serving?

INDUSTRY STANDARD

A standard scoop of uncooked chips is approximately 330g (approx 3 serves per kg). In some food service and hospitality situations such as where food is shared, a standard scoop may not be appropriate.

The Chip Group™ recommends the use of a standard scoop – these are available from equipment suppliers

Even with the recommended scoops operators will need to TRAIN THEIR STAFF (with weighing scales) to ensure that a consistent 330g of uncooked weight is measured.

Literature

  • No portion size guidelines for chips were found in the literature

Surveys

  • 1998 Survey
    Average portion size for independent fast food outlets: 326g (range 119 – 749g).
  • 2007 Survey
    Average portion size for independent fast food outlets: 437g. This is 33% more than reported in the 1998 survey.

Independent fast food

  • If you use a standard portion of 330g you would get 3 portions per 1 kg of chips.
  • Providing consistent 330g portions would have financial benefits for operators.
  • A standard portion size will give consistency across outlets so consumers will know what they are buying when they order a scoop.

Hospitality

  • Portion size and cost equation for restaurants is very different compared with independent fast food outlets. The chip platter is often a side order that is shared among several diners at the table.
  • Chefs said they do not want to get to the escalating American-sized portions and it was appropriate to have a Statement of Intent regarding portion size.

Event catering

  • Portion size is more likely to be controlled in event catering.

INDUSTRY STANDARD

A standard scoop of uncooked chips is approximately 330g (approx 3 serves per kg). In some food service and hospitality situations such as where food is shared, a standard scoop may not be appropriate.