Standard Angel Delight Butterscotch Sugar Content
For many years, the creamy, fluffy texture of Angel Delight has been a popular instant dessert. A key question for health-conscious consumers is the sugar content, particularly for the classic butterscotch flavour. The sugar amount in Angel Delight can vary depending on whether you choose the standard mix or the 'No Added Sugar' alternative, and also on how it is prepared.
When a 59g sachet of standard butterscotch Angel Delight is prepared with 300ml of semi-skimmed milk, one 92g portion contains 10.8g of sugar. It is worth noting that this figure includes both the sugar added to the powdered mix and the naturally occurring lactose present in the milk used for preparation. The dessert's lightness is derived from whisking air into the mixture, giving it its characteristic mousse-like consistency.
Breaking Down the Nutritional Label
To fully understand the sugar content, it's helpful to look at the per 100g data as well, which is often shown on nutritional labels. The standard butterscotch Angel Delight, once prepared with semi-skimmed milk, contains 11.7g of sugar per 100g. This places it in the 'medium sugar' category according to nutritional guidelines. The ingredients list also clearly indicates that sugar is the first and most prominent ingredient in the standard mix.
No Added Sugar Butterscotch Alternative
For those looking to reduce their sugar intake, the 'No Added Sugar' butterscotch version of Angel Delight is an option. When prepared with semi-skimmed milk, a 89g portion of this variant contains 5.0g of sugar. This is a significant reduction compared to the standard recipe, although it's important to remember that it still contains naturally occurring sugars from the milk.
This low-sugar option achieves its sweetness through the use of an artificial sweetener called sucralose, in addition to the use of milk solids. The inclusion of this sweetener is what allows for the much lower sugar count. Some consumers prefer to avoid artificial sweeteners, so this is an important consideration when choosing between the standard and 'No Added Sugar' options.
Comparison of Angel Delight Butterscotch Varieties
To provide clarity, here is a comparison table outlining the key nutritional differences between the standard and 'No Added Sugar' butterscotch flavours, based on data per portion as prepared with semi-skimmed milk.
| Nutritional Value | Standard Butterscotch | 'No Added Sugar' Butterscotch |
|---|---|---|
| Portion Size | 92g | 89g |
| Sugar | 10.8g | 5.0g |
| Calories | 98kcal | 89kcal |
| Fat | 2.7g | 3.2g |
| Saturates | 2.1g | 2.6g |
| Preparation | With semi-skimmed milk | With semi-skimmed milk |
It is interesting to observe that while the sugar is significantly lower in the 'No Added Sugar' version, the fat and saturated fat content can be slightly higher. This is often the case with low-sugar products, as manufacturers sometimes increase fat to maintain flavour and mouthfeel. However, both versions remain relatively low in calories compared to many other desserts.
The Role of Preparation and Ingredients
The final sugar content of your Angel Delight dessert can be influenced by the milk you choose. The nutritional information provided by manufacturers is typically based on preparation with semi-skimmed milk. If you were to use full-fat milk, the overall nutritional profile, including the fat content, would change. Likewise, plant-based milks would produce different results, and it is recommended to check the specific nutritional information of the brand you use. For those with dietary concerns, reading the product labels is always the best way to get the most accurate information.
Lists of ingredients for the standard butterscotch flavour typically start with sugar, followed by modified starch and dried glucose syrup, highlighting the high carbohydrate and sugar makeup of the mix itself. The 'No Added Sugar' version has maltodextrin as its primary ingredient, a carbohydrate that can affect blood sugar levels, and also includes sucralose. This is a crucial distinction for individuals, such as those with diabetes, who monitor their blood glucose.
Low-Sugar Alternatives and Conclusion
For those seeking a dessert with even less sugar than the 'No Added Sugar' Angel Delight, there are many healthy alternatives. Blending ripe avocado with unsweetened cocoa powder and a natural sweetener like stevia can create a rich, chocolatey mousse with minimal sugar. Natural yogurts topped with fresh fruit offer another simple, low-sugar option. Even homemade rice pudding made with plant-based milk can be a healthier choice.
In conclusion, the amount of sugar in Angel Delight butterscotch is dependent on the version you select. The standard variety contains 10.8g of sugar per portion, while the 'No Added Sugar' alternative has 5.0g. While both are lower in sugar and calories than many traditional desserts, it is important to consider the complete nutritional profile, including the use of sweeteners and the milk chosen for preparation. Checking product labels and being aware of alternatives allows for a more informed and health-conscious dessert choice. For additional insights on nutritious sweet treats, consider exploring resources on clean eating desserts.
