Is there a biscuit with no sugar? A comprehensive guide to unsweetened options

November 20, 2025 •

4 min read

According to the American Heart Association, excessive sugar consumption can lead to various health issues. This growing awareness has increased the demand for healthier snack options, prompting many to ask, "Is there a biscuit with no sugar?" The answer is nuanced, as options range from truly sugar-free to those with no added sugar, which may still contain naturally occurring sugars.

Quick Summary

This guide details the difference between "sugar-free" and "no added sugar" biscuits, identifies popular brands and healthy homemade recipes, and explains how to decipher nutrition labels to make informed choices. It also highlights the potential risks of some artificial sweeteners and suggests healthier biscuit alternatives.

Key Points

Label Lingo: "Sugar-free" means less than 0.5g sugar per serving, often using artificial sweeteners, while "no added sugar" only means no extra sugar was added, but natural sugars may be present.
Scrutinize Sweeteners: Be cautious with artificial sweeteners like erythritol, which some studies have linked to an increased risk of cardiovascular issues.
Read the Label: Always check the nutrition facts for "Added Sugars" and the ingredients list for hidden sugar names like honey, syrups, and juice concentrates.
Explore Alternatives: For a healthier, completely unsweetened snack, consider plain crackers, nuts, seeds, or homemade options.
Balance Your Biscuits: Moderate consumption is key, regardless of the label. Even healthier biscuit options should be part of a balanced diet.

Understanding 'Sugar-Free' vs. 'No Added Sugar'

When searching for biscuits, it is crucial to understand the distinct meanings behind product labels. A "sugar-free" product legally contains less than 0.5 grams of sugar per serving. This minimal sugar content is often achieved by using artificial sweeteners or sugar alcohols like erythritol or xylitol. In contrast, a "no added sugar" biscuit means no sucrose or sugar-containing ingredient was added during processing, but it can still contain naturally occurring sugars from ingredients such as fruit or milk. For example, a biscuit made with fruit purée will have naturally occurring sugar, but if no extra sugar is added, it can be labeled as "no added sugar." Always check the ingredients list to see what type of sweeteners are used.

Popular Unsweetened and No Added Sugar Biscuits

Several brands offer products for those seeking to reduce their sugar intake. These vary in ingredients, nutritional value, and flavor profile. It's essential to check the labels carefully for both sugar content and type of sweetener used.

Brands offering low-sugar options

Diablo: Known for its range of diabetic-friendly products, including chocolate chip and vanilla cocoa cream biscuits that utilize sweeteners like sucralose.
Gullon: Offers a line of sugar-free digestives and Maria biscuits.
LU Wheatable Sugar Free: A whole wheat biscuit with no added sugar.
Britannia Nutrichoice Essentials: Made with ragi and oats, designed for health-conscious consumers and diabetic patients.
Peek Freans Whole Wheat Slices Sugar Free: Another sugar-free, whole wheat option.
Nairn's Oat Biscuits: Offers a range of oat-based biscuits, some of which are unsweetened.

Potential Health Risks of Artificial Sweeteners

While helpful for reducing calories from sugar, some artificial sweeteners have potential downsides that consumers should be aware of. Recent studies have raised concerns, particularly regarding long-term cardiovascular health.

Notable findings on sweeteners

Erythritol: Research published in 2023 linked higher blood levels of erythritol to an increased risk of heart attack, stroke, or death, particularly in individuals already at risk for cardiovascular disease. Studies showed that erythritol could promote blood clot formation.
Sucralose and Aspartame: Some studies suggest a potential link between these sweeteners and an increased risk of certain health issues, though more research is needed to fully understand their long-term effects.
Impact on gut microbiome: Some artificial sweeteners may alter the balance of gut bacteria, which can influence metabolism and overall health.

How to Read Nutrition Labels Accurately

Learning to decipher food labels is your best tool for navigating unsweetened and sugar-free products. The key is to look beyond marketing claims and focus on the nutritional information panel.

Key label-reading tips

Look for Total Sugars: The label will list "Total Sugars," which includes both naturally occurring and added sugars.
Identify Added Sugars: Look for the line item "Includes Added Sugars" to see how much sugar has been added by the manufacturer.
Review Ingredients List: Ingredients are listed by weight in descending order. If a sugar or sweetener is near the top, it is a primary component.
Spot Other Names for Sugar: Manufacturers use many different names for added sugar. Look out for words like honey, maple syrup, corn syrup, fruit juice concentrate, and various forms of '-ose' like dextrose or fructose.
Use the %DV: The % Daily Value (%DV) can help compare products. Aim for biscuits with a lower %DV for added sugar.

Healthy Alternatives to Biscuits

For those who wish to avoid both sugar and artificial sweeteners, several healthier alternatives can provide a satisfying crunch.

Plain Crackers: Many plain, unsalted crackers contain no added sugar. Be sure to check the ingredients list for unexpected syrups or additives.
Homemade Biscuits: Control all ingredients by making your own. Recipes often use natural sweeteners like dates, applesauce, or maple syrup in moderation.
Nuts and Seeds: Rich in healthy fats and protein, nuts and seeds are a filling and nutritious alternative.
Rice Cakes: Low in calories, rice cakes can be paired with healthy toppings like nut butter or avocado.
Oatcakes: Whole-grain oatcakes are high in fiber and low in sugar, perfect for pairing with cheese or savory spreads.

Comparison of Biscuit Types


Feature	Conventional Biscuits	"No Added Sugar" Biscuits	"Sugar-Free" Biscuits
Sugar Source	High levels of refined and added sugars	Contains naturally occurring sugars from ingredients; no sugar added during processing	Contains less than 0.5g sugar per serving, uses artificial sweeteners or sugar alcohols
Sweetness	Very sweet	Varies, can be mildly sweet from natural sources	Sweetness level depends on the type of artificial sweetener used
Ingredients	Often contain refined flour, palm oil, and high amounts of sugar	Uses whole grains or other flours, natural ingredients	Contains artificial sweeteners or sugar alcohols; ingredient quality can vary
Glycemic Index	Typically high, causing blood sugar spikes	Can still impact blood sugar if high in carbs, but generally lower than conventional	Can have minimal to no impact on blood sugar, though some sugar alcohols may affect sensitive individuals
Best for...	Occasional indulgence	Those seeking to avoid processed sugar but are fine with natural sugars	Diabetics or those strictly controlling sugar intake, but with caution regarding artificial sweeteners

Conclusion

Yes, biscuits with no added sugar, or that are truly sugar-free, do exist and can be a healthier alternative to traditional sweet biscuits. The key to making a healthy choice is understanding the distinction between the two label types and reading the nutrition panel carefully. While "no added sugar" relies on natural sweetness, "sugar-free" uses artificial sweeteners, some of which are linked to potential health risks, such as an increased risk of cardiovascular events associated with erythritol. For the most natural option, consider plain crackers or homemade recipes, ensuring you have full control over the ingredients. Ultimately, an informed consumer can navigate the biscuit aisle confidently and make choices that align with their health goals.

American Heart Association - Sugar-Free vs. No Added Sugar

Frequently Asked Questions

Biscuits labeled 'no added sugar' may still contain natural sugars from ingredients like fruit or milk. Diabetics should check the total carbohydrates and consult a doctor or dietitian, as these can still affect blood sugar levels, especially in large quantities.

"Sugar-free" products contain less than 0.5 grams of sugar per serving, often using artificial sweeteners. "No added sugar" means no sugars were manually added during processing, but the product may contain naturally occurring sugars.

Some sugar-free biscuits are lower in calories and rich in fiber, which can help with weight management by promoting fullness. However, many still contain refined flours and unhealthy fats, and some artificial sweeteners have their own health concerns.

For truly unsweetened options, consider plain, unsalted crackers, whole grain oatcakes, nuts, seeds, and rice cakes. These can be paired with savory toppings for a satisfying snack.

Recent studies have raised concerns about the long-term health effects of some artificial sweeteners, like erythritol, linking them to an increased risk of cardiovascular events. Always research the specific sweeteners used.

Your best bet is to look for plain crackers or oatcakes in the bakery or health food aisle. Always read the ingredients list carefully, as even savory items can sometimes contain hidden sugars or additives.

Making your own biscuits gives you complete control over the ingredients, allowing you to use whole grains and naturally occurring sweetness from sources like dates, bananas, or applesauce instead of processed sugars or artificial substitutes.