The Hidden Truth About Biscuits: Are They Really Healthy?

Many people believe that biscuits, especially those labeled as 'multigrain' or made with healthier ingredients like jaggery, are nutritious. However, nutrition expert Amita Gadre reveals that these snacks often contain high levels of sugar and fat, contributing to empty calories. This article explores the composition of biscuits, the misconception surrounding healthier options, and the implications for children's diets. Learn why it's essential to treat biscuits as occasional treats rather than daily staples for a balanced diet.

By Narendra Chaudhary Dec 19, 2025, 11:11 IST

Understanding the Reality of Biscuits

Do you often grab a pack of 'multigrain' biscuits when enjoying your tea? Or perhaps you offer your child a 'ragi cookie', believing it to be a nutritious choice? It's time to reconsider.

What we perceive as healthy snacks may actually be hiding a significant calorie count. Nutritionist Amita Gadre has shed light on the misleading nature of biscuits in a recent Instagram post, revealing truths often obscured by marketing. Let's delve deeper.

The Composition of Biscuits
Regardless of whether biscuits are homemade or purchased, their fundamental composition remains largely unchanged. Typically, the following ratio is adhered to in biscuit production:

3 parts flour: about 50% to 70%
2 parts fat: around 15% to 35%
1 part sugar: roughly 10% to 25%
This indicates that any biscuit you consume is likely to be high in both fat and sugar.

Are Ghee and Jaggery Biscuits Healthy?
Many are now opting for millet-based biscuits (like bajra and ragi) sweetened with jaggery instead of refined sugar and made with ghee rather than oil. While this may seem like a healthier alternative, these biscuits still contribute 'empty calories'. They contain unnecessary sugars and fats that are not beneficial, especially for growing children.

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Should Children Eat Biscuits?
Parents often believe that ragi or multigrain cookies are suitable snacks for kids. While it's acceptable to offer them occasionally for flavor, making them a daily staple can be detrimental to their health. No biscuit, regardless of its 'healthy' label, can substitute for a well-rounded diet. Treat biscuits or cookies as an infrequent indulgence rather than a daily necessity, as the extra calories they provide are unnecessary for the body.

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