Understanding the Calorie Count in Bisto Best Chicken Gravy
When assessing the calorie content of Bisto Best chicken gravy, it is important to distinguish between the granules in their dry form and the gravy once prepared with water. The nutritional information on the packaging provides both details, which can be crucial for anyone counting calories. A standard serving of the prepared gravy is surprisingly low in energy, offering a comforting flavour without a significant calorie load.
Official Bisto Nutrition Details
Based on data from the manufacturer, here is a detailed look at the calories and other key nutritional values for Bisto Best Chicken Gravy Granules:
Per 50ml portion (prepared):
- Energy: 14 kcal
- Fat: <0.5g
- Saturates: 0.1g
- Carbohydrate: 2.7g
- Sugars: <0.5g
- Protein: <0.5g
- Salt: 0.44g
Per 100g (as sold):
- Energy: 350 kcal
- Fat: 6.7g
- Saturates: 3.0g
- Carbohydrate: 67.7g
- Sugars: 1.7g
- Protein: 4.1g
- Salt: 11.20g
Factors That Influence Caloric Content
While the label provides a clear guide, a few variables can impact the final nutritional value of your gravy:
- Preparation Method: The standard preparation involves adding boiling water to the granules. However, if you add fat from a roast pan or use milk instead of water, the calorie count will increase. Sticking to the instructions is the best way to maintain the advertised low calorie count.
- Portion Size: Most people do not measure their gravy and may pour more than the recommended 50ml portion. Using a measuring jug for accuracy is the only way to be certain you are sticking to the 14kcal per serving. Larger portions mean more calories, fat, and salt.
- Additives: Any additions you make, such as herbs, spices, or leftover meat juices, can slightly alter the nutritional profile. Purely prepared with water, the product is very lean, but these additions will add flavour and potentially calories.
Bisto Best vs. Other Gravy Options
To put the calorie count of Bisto Best into perspective, let's compare it with other popular gravy options. This table highlights how different products and preparation methods stack up against each other.
| Gravy Type | Calories (per serving) | Fat (per serving) | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bisto Best Chicken | 14 kcal (50ml portion) | <0.5g (50ml portion) | Very low-calorie option, prepared with water. |
| Bisto Traditional Granules | 13 kcal (50ml portion) | 0.5g (50ml portion) | Slightly lower in calories than Bisto Best, with similar macros. |
| Homemade Gravy | Varies widely | Varies widely | Can be high in calories depending on fat from meat drippings, flour, and butter used. |
| Store-Bought Pots/Jars | Higher | Higher | Often contain more fats and calories from extra ingredients for shelf stability and flavour. |
Practical Tips for Calorie-Conscious Gravy Lovers
Enjoying a delicious, flavourful gravy doesn't have to sabotage your diet. By implementing a few simple strategies, you can control your intake without sacrificing taste:
- Measure Your Portions: Don't eyeball it. Use a measuring spoon or jug to stick to the recommended serving size. Remember that the calories will add up quickly if you consume multiple servings.
- Use Water for Preparation: Always follow the package instructions and use plain boiling water to prepare your gravy. Avoid adding fatty meat juices or butter to keep the calorie count at its lowest.
- Thicken Naturally: If you prefer a thicker gravy, consider a healthier alternative to adding more granules. A small amount of cornflour mixed with cold water and stirred into the hot gravy can thicken it without adding significant calories. Be mindful that even this adds some carbohydrates.
- Enhance Flavour Naturally: Instead of relying on fat for flavour, use herbs and spices. Adding a sprig of rosemary or thyme while the gravy is still hot can infuse it with extra taste without adding calories. A splash of low-sodium soy sauce or a dash of black pepper can also boost the flavour profile.
- Look for 'Reduced Salt' Options: Bisto Best is already a relatively low-sodium product when prepared, but if salt intake is a concern, always check for reduced-sodium versions or consider controlling your portion sizes carefully, as the granules contain high levels of salt.
Conclusion
When answering how many calories are in Bisto Best chicken gravy, the key is knowing the serving size. At just 14 calories per 50ml portion when prepared according to the instructions, it is a very low-calorie condiment, making it a great option for those monitoring their intake. Compared to richer, fattier homemade or store-bought alternatives, Bisto Best offers a lean and flavourful choice. By being mindful of your portion size and preparation method, you can enjoy this classic accompaniment without guilt.
For more nutritional information on Bisto products, you can visit the official Bisto website at https://www.bisto.co.uk/products/bisto-best-chicken-gravy-150g/.
