Core Ingredients Across Unibic Sugar-Free Variants
While specific components can differ depending on the flavor, several ingredients form the foundation of most Unibic sugar-free biscuits. These typically include a base flour, a zero-calorie sweetener, and a fat source.
Flours and Cereal Base
The base of the biscuit provides its structure. Many Unibic sugar-free variants use refined wheat flour (maida), while some offer healthier alternatives.
- Refined Wheat Flour (Maida): A primary ingredient in varieties like the Sugar Free Cashew, Butter, and Oatmeal cookies.
- Cereal Products: The Multigrain variety features a blend of cereals, including refined wheat flour, oats, ragi, rice, and corn.
- Whole Wheat Flour (Atta): Some products, like the Sugar Free Cashew cookies, may use whole wheat flour as their base.
Sugar Replacements: Sweeteners
Since these biscuits contain no added sugar, they rely on sugar substitutes to provide sweetness without calories. The main sweeteners used are sugar alcohols and artificial sweeteners.
- Maltitol (INS 965): A sugar alcohol that provides sweetness with fewer calories and has a lower impact on blood glucose levels compared to sugar.
- Sucralose (INS 955): An artificial, non-caloric sweetener often used alongside maltitol to enhance the sweet flavor.
Fats and Flavoring
To achieve the desired texture and taste, Unibic includes fats and flavor-specific additions.
- Edible Vegetable Oil (Palm): This is a common fat used in the biscuits.
- Butter: The Sugar Free Butter and Oatmeal cookies incorporate butter for a richer flavor.
- Flavor-Specific Additions:
- Cashew Bits: Added to the Sugar Free Cashew cookies.
- Rolled Oats: A key component of the Sugar Free Oatmeal variant.
- Mixed Nuts and Spices: The Multigrain variety may include a mix of nuts and spices for flavor and texture.
Leavening and Emulsifiers
Chemical leavening agents and emulsifiers are essential for achieving the biscuit's crumbly texture and consistency.
- Leavening Agents (INS 503ii, INS 500ii): These include Ammonium Bicarbonate and Sodium Bicarbonate, which help the biscuits rise during baking.
- Emulsifier (INS 322 from Soya): An emulsifier derived from soy, also known as lecithin, helps to bind ingredients and create a smooth texture.
Variant-Specific Ingredient Breakdown
While many ingredients are consistent, each flavor profile has unique additions. Examining the product labels on different Unibic sugar-free biscuit packs provides clarity.
Unibic Sugar Free Oatmeal Cookies
Beyond the core ingredients, this variant features:
- Rolled Oats (8%): Adds a distinctive texture and oat flavor.
- Dextrin: A soluble fiber and food additive.
- Desiccated Coconut Powder: Contributes a hint of coconut flavor.
Unibic Sugar Free Multigrain Cookies
This flavor is notable for its blend of grains:
- Cereal Products (45%): A mix of refined wheat flour, oats, ragi, rice, and corn for a robust, multi-grain profile.
- Nuts (4%): Includes a blend of almonds and cashews.
- Wheat Bran: Adds dietary fiber.
Unibic Sugar Free Cashew Cookies
This option focuses on the nutty flavor of cashews:
- Cashew Bits (9%): The prominent flavor and texture come from real cashew pieces.
- Whole Wheat Flour (Atta): Sometimes listed as the primary flour, indicating a more whole-grain option.
Unibic Sugar Free Butter Cookies
These cookies feature a rich, buttery taste:
- Butter (20%): A higher butter content differentiates this biscuit, giving it a classic rich flavor.
Nutritional Considerations
Even though these biscuits are sugar-free, they still contain calories and carbohydrates, mainly from flour and the polyol sweeteners. Polyols, like maltitol, are not fully absorbed and can have a laxative effect if consumed in large quantities. It's important to consume them in moderation, especially for individuals monitoring their total carbohydrate intake.
Comparison of Unibic Sugar Free Variants
| Ingredient Category | Oatmeal Cookies | Multigrain Cookies | Cashew Cookies | Butter Cookies |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Primary Flour | Refined Wheat Flour (Maida) | Refined Wheat Flour (Maida), Oats, Ragi, Rice, Corn | Refined Wheat Flour (Maida) / Whole Wheat Flour (Atta) | Refined Wheat Flour (Maida) |
| Sweeteners | Maltitol, Sucralose | Maltitol, Sucralose | Maltitol, Sucralose | Maltitol, Sucralose |
| Fat Source | Edible Vegetable Oil (Palm), Butter | Edible Vegetable Oil (Palm), Butter | Edible Vegetable Oil (Palm), Butter | Edible Vegetable Oil (Palm), Butter (20%) |
| Key Inclusions | Rolled Oats, Coconut Powder, Dextrin | 45% Cereals, Nuts (Almond, Cashew), Oat Fibre, Wheat Bran | Cashew Bits | High Butter Content |
| Allergens | Gluten, Soya | Gluten, Soya, Nuts | Gluten, Soya, Nuts | Gluten, Soya (May Contain Nuts) |
Conclusion
Unibic's sugar-free biscuit range offers different flavor profiles while maintaining a consistent approach to sugar reduction. The primary ingredients include a base flour (often maida or a cereal blend), sugar substitutes like maltitol and sucralose, and palm oil or butter as a fat source. Each flavor, from the nutty Cashew to the fibrous Multigrain, features specific inclusions that define its taste and texture. While they are a suitable alternative for those avoiding sugar, consumers should be mindful of the overall carbohydrate content and the potential laxative effects of polyols when consuming large quantities. Understanding these ingredients allows for an informed choice that aligns with individual dietary needs and preferences. A detailed breakdown of food additives and their functions is available from the Open Food Facts project, which provides transparency on processed foods.
