What is a Parle G Gold Biscuit?
Parle G Gold is a premium variant of the classic Parle G glucose biscuit, one of India's most widely recognized and consumed biscuits. The 'Gold' version is noted for being slightly larger, richer, and having a more pronounced flavor than its standard counterpart, primarily due to a different ingredient ratio, which includes more milk and sugar. Despite these differences, it retains the characteristic sweetness and satisfying crunch that has made the Parle G brand a household name for decades.
The Calorie Breakdown for a Single Parle G Gold
The exact calorie count of a single Parle G Gold biscuit is derived from the nutritional information provided on the packaging or by reputable food databases. Various sources and serving sizes show that a single biscuit contains approximately 28 calories. This is based on a standard serving of five biscuits being 140 calories. The specific calorie amount can fluctuate slightly depending on the biscuit's exact weight, as they are mass-produced items.
Factors Affecting Calorie Variation
- Manufacturing Variations: Minor inconsistencies in the baking process or ingredient portions can lead to slight calorie deviations between batches.
- Ingredient Quality: The fat, sugar, and flour content from different suppliers may have marginal differences in calorie density.
- Regional Formulations: Recipes can be adjusted slightly to cater to local market preferences, though this is less common for a globally distributed product like Parle G.
Full Nutritional Profile
Beyond just calories, understanding the full nutritional profile of Parle G Gold is important for those monitoring their dietary intake. The following list details the typical macronutrient breakdown per a standard serving of five biscuits (approximately 31g), which contains 140 calories.
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 24g, primarily from refined wheat flour and sugar.
- Sugar: About 8g, contributing significantly to the total carbohydrate count.
- Fats: Around 5g of total fat, with 2g of saturated fat. The fat comes mainly from refined palm oil.
- Protein: Contains about 2g of protein.
- Sodium: Approximately 90mg.
- Fiber: Very low, with only about 0.5g per serving.
Comparison of Parle G and Parle G Gold
| Feature | Classic Parle G Biscuit | Parle G Gold Biscuit | 
|---|---|---|
| Appearance | Smaller, lighter brown | Larger, richer golden bake | 
| Taste | Sweet, milky, and slightly crisp | Slightly sweeter and crunchier | 
| Texture | Known to soften quickly when dipped | More resistant to melting when dipped | 
| Calorie Count (per biscuit) | Approximately 17-21 calories | Approximately 28 calories | 
| Richness | Standard recipe | Richer formulation with more milk solids | 
| Primary Ingredients | Wheat flour, sugar, vegetable oil | Higher quality wheat flour, more milk solids, higher sugar content | 
The Role of Parle G Gold in a Diet
While the biscuit provides a quick source of energy due to its high carbohydrate and sugar content, it offers limited nutritional benefits in terms of vitamins, minerals, and fiber. The primary ingredients are refined wheat flour and sugar, which can lead to increased blood sugar levels and potential weight gain if consumed in excess. However, when enjoyed in moderation, it can be part of a balanced diet. Its high calorie density relative to its size means that a small number of biscuits can contribute a notable amount to one's daily calorie intake, especially when paired with a sugary beverage.
It is important for individuals monitoring their sugar or calorie intake to be mindful of serving sizes. A single biscuit is a small snack, but consuming several in a sitting can quickly add up. The difference in richness between the standard and gold versions means the latter is slightly higher in calories per biscuit, a key detail for those tracking their macros meticulously.
Conclusion
To summarize, one Parle G Gold biscuit contains approximately 28 calories, a modest amount for a quick energy boost. However, the key to incorporating this popular Indian snack into a healthy lifestyle lies in managing the serving size. As with any food, moderation is essential, especially given its low fiber and high sugar content. Those seeking a lower-calorie option can opt for the classic Parle G, which typically contains fewer calories per biscuit. By understanding the nutritional information, consumers can make informed choices about how snacks like Parle G Gold fit into their overall dietary goals.
For more detailed dietary information, you can consult a food database like Eat This Much.