Bisto Instant Gravy: Calorie Breakdown by Variety
Understanding how many calories are in Bisto instant gravy is important for anyone conscious of their diet. The calorie count can vary slightly depending on the specific product, such as the traditional granules versus a reduced-salt or a 'Bisto Best' option. The nutritional information is typically provided for a prepared serving (often 50ml) and for the granules as sold (per 100g).
Traditional Gravy Granules
A standard 50ml portion of Bisto Traditional Gravy, prepared with boiling water, contains approximately 13 calories. The dry granules contain significantly more energy, but this is less relevant as they are not consumed directly. The low number of calories in the prepared gravy makes it a relatively light addition to a meal.
- Energy (per 50ml prepared portion): 13 kcal
- Fat: 0.5g
- Salt: 0.47g
Bisto Reduced Salt Gravy Granules
For those watching their sodium intake, Bisto offers a reduced salt version. This variant has a similar calorie profile to the traditional version but with a notably lower salt content, making it a better option for heart health.
- Energy (per 50ml prepared portion): 14 kcal
- Fat: 0.5g
- Salt: 0.28g
Bisto Best Gravy
Bisto Best offers a more premium option, often with a richer flavour, but this does not significantly impact the calorie count per serving when prepared. This product line maintains a low-calorie profile while offering an enhanced taste.
- Energy (per 50ml prepared portion): 14 kcal
- Fat: <0.5g
- Salt: 0.50g
Comparison Table: Bisto Varieties at a Glance
To provide a clearer picture, here is a comparative table of the calorie and key nutritional information for several popular Bisto gravy options per 50ml serving.
| Bisto Variety | Calories (kcal) | Fat (g) | Salt (g) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Traditional Gravy Granules | 13 | 0.5 | 0.47 |
| Reduced Salt Gravy Granules | 14 | 0.5 | 0.28 |
| Best Beef Gravy Granules | 14 | <0.5 | 0.50 |
| Onion Gravy Granules | 13 | 0.5 | 0.38 |
Making Your Gravy Healthier
While Bisto instant gravy is already low in calories, there are ways to improve its nutritional profile further, especially concerning sodium and additives.
Use Gravy Sparingly
The simplest method is to use less of it. Instead of drowning your food, use just enough gravy to add flavour. This reduces not only calories but also the overall salt intake.
Look for Reduced Salt Options
As the comparison table shows, Bisto's reduced-salt variant cuts sodium significantly without compromising the low-calorie benefit. This is a simple switch for health-conscious consumers.
Add Natural Flavour Enhancers
For a richer, less processed flavour, consider adding natural ingredients to your Bisto. Simmering onions, a few mushrooms, or some herbs like rosemary or thyme with the prepared gravy can add depth without extra calories.
Create Your Own Lower-Calorie Version
For a full-control, low-calorie gravy, consider making one from scratch. This allows you to avoid added salt and artificial flavour enhancers like MSG and choose healthier fats. A simple base of vegetable stock, thickened with a small amount of cornstarch and seasoned with herbs, can be a great alternative. For an authoritative guide on scratch-made gravy, check out RecipeTin Eats' gravy recipe.
Common Ingredients in Bisto Instant Gravy
To understand the nutritional content, it helps to know what goes into the granules. The primary ingredients typically include:
- Potato Starch and Maltodextrin: These are the key thickeners and bulking agents.
- Palm Fat: This is a source of the fat content.
- Salt: A key flavouring, present in varying amounts depending on the variant.
- Flavour Enhancers: Monosodium glutamate (MSG) and Disodium 5′-Ribonucleotides are often used to intensify the savoury flavour.
- Colouring: Ammonia Caramel provides the signature brown colour.
Conclusion: A Low-Calorie Addition to Your Meal
For those wondering how many calories are in Bisto instant gravy, the answer is remarkably low per prepared serving, typically around 13-14 kcal for a 50ml portion. While it provides a low-calorie way to enhance your meal, it's important to be mindful of its salt content, especially in the regular versions. Opting for a reduced-salt variant or supplementing with natural ingredients are easy ways to make your gravy even healthier. For a complete dietary picture, always refer to the specific nutritional information on the packaging of your chosen Bisto product.
