Understanding Meat, Poultry & Fish When it comes to meat, aim for a total of 5-6 ounces per day, served in one or two portions. That's really all the poultry, seafood or lean meat your body needs. And remember, most fish and poultry have fewer calories than fatty cuts of red meat. They do contain cholesterol, though, so keep portions the same as for red meat. Lean red meat is available; look for it at your meat counter.