Britannia 50-50 Sweet & Salty: Calories, Nutrition and Health Facts
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Perplexity India's original sweet-meets-salty cracker—the iconic 50-50 that defined a generation of chai-time snacking.
Quick Nutrition Facts
Per 100g (approximately 14 biscuits)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 485 kcal |
| Protein | 6.5g |
| Carbohydrates | 70g |
| Fiber | 1.8g |
| Sugars | 20g |
| Total Fat | 19g |
| Saturated Fat | 9g |
| Trans Fat | 0g |
| Sodium | 460mg |
| Cholesterol | 0mg |
Macronutrient Breakdown
NUTRITIONIST INSIGHT
The original 50-50 Sweet & Salty has 40 fewer calories per 100g than Maska Chaska and nearly half the sodium. Still a processed snack, but the better choice between the two if you're managing calories or blood pressure.
Myth Busters
MYTH #1: Sweet & Salty Balance Makes It Healthier
TRUTH: The unique flavor comes from combining 20g sugar with salt—not from balanced nutrition. Both added sugar and sodium contribute to metabolic issues when consumed regularly.
MYTH #2: It's a Light Snack for Tea Time
TRUTH: Five biscuits (35g) provide 170 calories—similar to a small meal. The combination of refined carbs and fat doesn't trigger fullness signals effectively, making overconsumption easy.
MYTH #3: Lower Fat Than Other Biscuits Means It's Healthy
TRUTH: While 19g fat per 100g is less than cream biscuits, nearly half (9g) is saturated fat from palm oil. Saturated fat raises LDL cholesterol regardless of the source.
MYTH #4: Good Source of Energy for Kids
TRUTH: While it provides quick energy from carbs, the 20g added sugar per 100g can contribute to childhood obesity and dental problems. Whole grain alternatives offer sustained energy.
MYTH #5: Vegetarian and Safe for Everyone
TRUTH: While vegetarian, it contains wheat gluten (not safe for celiacs) and may be produced in facilities handling nuts. Always check packaging for allergen warnings.
NutriScore by Health Goals
| Health Goal | NutriScore | Why This Score? |
|---|---|---|
| Weight Loss |  | 485 kcal/100g with low fiber (1.8g) and high sugar (20g). Doesn't promote satiety. Limit to 2-3 biscuits occasionally. |
| Muscle Gain |  | Quick carbs (70g/100g) for energy but inadequate protein (6.5g). Pair with protein shake post-workout if using. |
| Diabetes Management | | High refined carbs and added sugar spike blood glucose rapidly. 20g sugar/100g exceeds safe limits for diabetics. |
| PCOS Management | | High glycemic load worsens insulin resistance. The sugar-salt combination can trigger cravings and bloating. |
| Pregnancy Nutrition | | Lower sodium than Maska Chaska (460mg vs 1065mg). Can help with morning sickness nausea in small amounts; prefer whole grain options. |
| Viral/Flu Recovery | | Easy to digest when appetite is low. Provides quick energy but minimal immune-supporting nutrients. |
PERSONALIZED NUTRITION
Track your meals with NutriScan for personalized NutriScores based on your specific health goals!
Blood Sugar Response to 50-50 Sweet & Salty
Understanding the glycemic impact helps manage portions and timing effectively.
Typical Glucose Response Curve
*This chart shows typical blood glucose response for general healthy individuals. Individual responses may vary. Not medical advice.*
How to Flatten the Spike
Combining refined carbs with protein or fat moderates glucose absorption:
- 🥛 Glass of milk or chai - Protein and fat slow carb absorption
- 🥜 Peanut butter spread - Adds protein and healthy fats
- 🥚 Boiled egg alongside - Complete protein source
- 🫘 Handful of roasted chana - Fiber and protein combination
Limit to 3-4 biscuits and avoid eating on an empty stomach.
Cultural Significance
Britannia 50-50 is one of India's most iconic biscuit brands, launched in the 1980s.
In India:
- The name "50-50" represents the equal sweet and salty taste
- Revolutionary concept when launched—first sweet-salty cracker
- Affordable pricing made it accessible to all income groups
- Became synonymous with "biscuit" in many households
- Popular across all age groups as chai-time companion
Brand Heritage:
- Britannia Industries founded in 1892 in Kolkata
- 50-50 became one of India's top-selling biscuit brands
- Multiple variants launched: Maska Chaska, Potazos, TimePass
- Exports to 60+ countries serving Indian diaspora
- Part of Indian nostalgia and childhood memories
Compare & Substitute
50-50 Sweet & Salty vs Similar Snacks (Per 100g)
| Nutrient | 🍪 Sweet & Salty | 🧈 Maska Chaska | 🍪 Marie Gold | 🥜 Roasted Chana |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Calories | 485 kcal | 525 kcal | 435 kcal | 360 kcal |
| Carbs | 70g | 63.8g | 75g | 55g |
| Fiber | 1.8g | 1.5g | 2.5g | 12g |
| Protein | 6.5g | 7.7g | 7g | 20g |
| Fat | 19g | 26.5g | 12g | 5g |
| Sugar | 20g | 9.8g | 22g | 3g |
| Sodium | 460mg | 1065mg | 350mg | 25mg |
| Best For | Lower fat option | Savory craving | Lowest fat biscuit | Healthy high-protein |
Frequently Asked Questions
How many calories are in one 50-50 biscuit?
One biscuit weighs approximately 7g and contains about 34 calories; a typical serving of 5 biscuits (35g) provides 170 calories with 6.7g fat and 24.5g carbohydrates.
Is 50-50 Sweet & Salty better than Maska Chaska for dieting?
Yes, marginally better with 40 fewer calories per 100g, 28% less fat (19g vs 26.5g), and 57% less sodium (460mg vs 1065mg); still not diet-friendly but the better choice between the two.
Can diabetics eat 50-50 Sweet & Salty?
Not recommended due to 70g refined carbs and 20g sugar per 100g; if eating occasionally, limit to 2-3 biscuits maximum with protein and monitor blood glucose response for 2 hours after.
Why is it called 50-50?
The name represents the balanced 50% sweet and 50% salty flavor profile—a unique combination that was revolutionary in Indian biscuit market when launched in the 1980s.
Does 50-50 contain maida (refined flour)?
Yes, the primary ingredient is refined wheat flour (maida); this is why it has low fiber (1.8g/100g) and high glycemic impact; whole wheat alternatives are healthier choices.
Is 50-50 suitable for children?
Not ideal as regular snack due to 20g added sugar per 100g; occasional consumption acceptable; WHO recommends children limit added sugar to 25g daily, so 5 biscuits would provide 7g (28% of limit).
What preservatives are in 50-50 Sweet & Salty?
Contains raising agents (sodium bicarbonate, ammonium bicarbonate, acid calcium phosphate) and may contain permitted emulsifiers; check packaging for complete ingredient list and allergen information.
How long does opened 50-50 stay fresh?
Once opened, consume within 1-2 weeks; store in airtight container away from moisture; crackers become soft when exposed to humidity; check best-before date on packaging.
