How to Choose the Right Serving Size for Your Beverage

16 Dec How to Choose the Right Serving Size for Your Beverage

Choosing the correct serving size for a beverage isn’t optional—it’s regulated. The FDA uses Reference Amounts Customarily Consumed (RACC) to determine your serving size.

⭐ Beverage RACC Values

For most beverages, the RACC is 360 mL.
This covers:

• Teas

• Flavored waters

• Energy drinks

• Juice blends

• Electrolyte drinks

• Functional beverages

If your package is less than 200% of the RACC, it must be labeled as one serving per container.

⭐ Dual-Column Labels

Required when:

• Your beverage is more than 200% of the RACC

• But can reasonably be consumed in one sitting

Example:

• A 20oz (591mL) beverage
  → Must use dual columns.

⭐ Exceptions

Some beverages use different RACC categories:

• Concentrates

• Powders

• Drink mixes

• Coffee drinks

• Protein shakes

We determine the correct category for you.

⭐ Why Serving Size Matters

• Affects calories

• % Daily Values

• Claims (“low sugar,” “good source of vitamin C”)

• Retail approval

• Import/export compliance

⭐ Need Help Choosing the Correct Serving Size?

United Food Labs handles full FDA-compliant serving size calculations for beverages.