The Calorie Breakdown of a Single Ballerina Biscuit
For anyone monitoring their intake, knowing the precise nutritional information for their favorite snacks is key. The Swedish-made Ballerina Original biscuit is a popular choice, known for its unique two-toned design and creamy filling. According to nutritional information, one standard 14.6g biscuit contains 70 kcal. While this is a moderate amount for a small treat, it's the composition of those calories that provides a fuller picture of its nutritional value.
Nutritional Composition per 100g
To understand the full nutritional profile, looking at the data per 100 grams provides a clearer, more standardized overview.
- Energy: 2100 kJ / 500 kcal
- Fat: 23 g, of which saturated fat is 12 g
- Carbohydrates: 65 g, of which sugars are 32 g
- Protein: 6 g
- Salt: 0.5 g
Using these values, we can see that the calories in a Ballerina biscuit are largely derived from its high carbohydrate and fat content. The sugar content, in particular, is significant, making it a confectionery item rather than a low-sugar snack option.
The Role of the Nougat Filling
The hazelnut cream filling is the star of the Ballerina biscuit and a major contributor to its calorie density. The filling's ingredients, including sugar, fully hydrogenated coconut fat, whey powder, and hazelnuts, create its rich texture and contribute to the biscuit's high saturated fat content.
Ballerina Biscuit Ingredients List
The ingredients in the Ballerina Original biscuit contribute to its unique flavor. Key components include wheat flour, sugar, hydrogenated vegetable fat, sunflower oil, whey powder, hazelnuts in the filling (10%), fat-reduced cocoa powder, leavening agents, invert sugar syrup, salt, soy lecithin as an emulsifier, vanillin flavoring, and barley malt. The biscuit contains common allergens like gluten, milk, soy, and hazelnuts, and may have traces of other nuts.
Comparison with Other Popular Biscuits
To put the Ballerina biscuit's calorie count into perspective, here's a comparison with a single Oreo and a standard Digestive biscuit, though nutritional values can vary by brand and region.
| Biscuit Type | Calories (per biscuit) | Fat (per biscuit) | Carbs (per biscuit) | Sugars (per biscuit) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ballerina Original (14.6g) | 70 kcal | ~3.4 g | ~9.5 g | ~4.7 g |
| Oreo Original (11.3g) | ~53 kcal | ~2.3 g | ~7.8 g | ~4.7 g |
| Digestive Biscuit (14.6g) | ~71 kcal | ~3.2 g | ~9.3 g | ~3.1 g |
A single Ballerina biscuit generally has slightly more calories and fat than an Oreo, largely due to size and filling density. It is similar in calories to a Digestive biscuit but contains significantly more sugar.
Is the Ballerina Biscuit a Healthy Choice?
Ballerina biscuits are best enjoyed as an occasional treat rather than a regular snack due to their nutritional profile.
Considerations for consumption:
- They are high in sugar and saturated fat, which should be limited in a balanced diet.
- The biscuit offers minimal fiber and protein.
- They contain significant allergens including gluten, milk, soy, and hazelnuts.
Tips for enjoying in moderation:
- Limit consumption to occasional treats.
- Pair with healthier foods to improve satiety.
- Be aware of allergens if you have dietary restrictions.
Conclusion
A standard 14.6g Ballerina Original biscuit contains 70 calories. This calorie count is mainly due to its sweet, nougat-filled center and ingredients high in sugar and fat. While a delicious indulgence, it's best consumed in moderation as part of a balanced diet, particularly for those watching their sugar or saturated fat intake. Mindful consumption allows enjoyment of its unique flavor while supporting health goals.
