The Short Answer: Yes, Bisto Contains Salt
For those wondering, 'does Bisto gravy have salt?', the answer is definitively yes. Salt is a key ingredient in most of their product lines, from the traditional granules to the gravy powders. It is used as a flavouring agent and is a major contributor to the overall taste profile. The amount of salt, however, varies significantly depending on the specific type of Bisto you purchase. The company also produces a 'Reduced Salt' version for those monitoring their sodium intake.
Breaking Down the Salt Content by Product
To make an informed choice for your meals, it's helpful to understand the salt content across different Bisto products. The figures provided below are based on readily available nutritional information from the manufacturer and retailers.
- Traditional Gravy Granules: These are known for their classic flavour but come with a notable amount of sodium. A standard 50ml prepared portion contains approximately 0.47g of salt. Per 100g of the granules as sold, this equates to 14.33g of salt, which is considered a high-salt food.
- Reduced Salt Gravy Granules: Designed for a healthier option, this version contains 25% less salt than the standard equivalent. A 50ml prepared portion has about 0.28g of salt, making it a medium-salt product.
- Original Gravy Powder: For those who prefer the traditional powder, the salt content is also relatively high. A 50ml prepared portion contains around 0.61g of salt. This version is particularly strong in its savoury, salty flavour, which some users appreciate.
- Bisto Best Beef Gravy Granules: These offer a richer, meatier flavour but also contain a significant amount of salt. One 50ml prepared portion has 0.50g of salt.
The Role of Salt and Other Ingredients
Salt is not the only ingredient contributing to the savoury taste of Bisto. Many varieties also include flavour enhancers like Monosodium Glutamate (MSG) and Disodium 5′-Ribonucleotides, which amplify the salty and umami flavours. This combination can result in a more intense flavour profile than salt alone could provide. The base ingredients typically include potato starch, maltodextrin, and palm fat, which give the gravy its texture.
How to Manage Salt in Your Gravy
If you find Bisto too salty or are simply looking to reduce your sodium intake, several options are available:
- Opt for Reduced Salt versions: As mentioned, Bisto offers a 'Reduced Salt' line. This is the simplest way to continue enjoying the convenience of Bisto while lowering your sodium consumption.
- Dilute with unsalted liquid: For those using regular Bisto, preparing it with a small amount of extra unsalted water or low-sodium broth can help temper the saltiness without sacrificing too much flavour.
- Add unsalted dairy or roux: Stirring in a small amount of unsalted cream, milk, or a newly prepared, unsalted roux (a mixture of flour and fat) can balance out an overly salty gravy.
- Make homemade gravy: The most effective way to control sodium is to make your gravy from scratch. By using low-sodium broth or unsalted meat drippings, you have complete control over the seasoning. A simple homemade recipe can use unsalted butter, flour, and low-sodium stock, with herbs and spices for flavour.
Bisto Gravy Salt Comparison
| Product Type | Salt per 50ml Portion (Prepared) | Salt per 100g (Granules) | Features |
|---|---|---|---|
| Traditional Granules | 0.47g | 14.33g | Classic flavour, higher salt |
| Reduced Salt Granules | 0.28g | 8.45g | 25% less salt, less flavour intensity |
| Best Beef Granules | 0.50g | 12.59g | Richer flavour, high salt |
| Original Gravy Powder | 0.61g | 23.66g | Traditional method, highest salt |
Conclusion
Yes, Bisto gravy does contain salt, and in many standard products, the salt content is quite high. Consumers have a variety of Bisto options with differing salt levels, including a 'Reduced Salt' variety for a healthier choice. The overall taste is also influenced by other flavour enhancers like MSG. For those with strict dietary needs, exploring homemade gravy recipes using low-sodium ingredients remains the best option for maximum control over sodium intake. Understanding these differences allows you to choose the best product for your dietary needs and flavour preferences. For more information on health and dietary salt, you can refer to authoritative sources like Action on Salt.
