Parle-G Original: Calories, Nutrition and Health Benefits
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Perplexity India's most iconic glucose biscuit, trusted for generations as an affordable source of quick energy and nostalgic comfort.
Quick Nutrition Facts
Per 100g (approximately 14 biscuits)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 462 kcal |
| Protein | 6.5g |
| Carbohydrates | 76g |
| Fiber | 1.5g |
| Sugars | 27g |
| Fat | 14.5g |
| Saturated Fat | 7g |
| Sodium | 320mg |
Macronutrient Breakdown
NUTRITIONIST INSIGHT
Parle-G provides quick energy from glucose (27g sugar per 100g) with relatively lower fat than premium biscuits. While affordable and convenient, the high refined carb content (76g) makes portion control essential. Best enjoyed with milk or tea as an occasional snack, not a daily staple.
Myth Busters
MYTH #1: Parle-G Is a Healthy Breakfast Option
TRUTH: Despite the "G" for glucose suggesting energy, Parle-G lacks essential breakfast nutrients like fiber, vitamins, and quality protein. Glucose biscuits have high glycemic index causing rapid blood sugar spikes followed by crashes. Pair with milk and fruits, never as sole breakfast.
MYTH #2: Glucose Biscuits Give Sustained Energy
TRUTH: The quick energy from glucose is followed by rapid blood sugar drop within 1-2 hours. Simple sugars provide immediate but short-lived energy without sustained fuel. Complex carbs (oats, whole grains) provide more stable energy.
MYTH #3: Parle-G Is Good for Growing Children
TRUTH: While affordable, Parle-G provides mostly empty calories. Children need nutrient-dense foods with calcium, iron, vitamins for growth. Use as occasional treat, not nutritional staple for kids.
MYTH #4: Dipping in Tea Makes Biscuits Healthier
TRUTH: Tea itself has health benefits, but dipping biscuits doesn't reduce their refined flour or sugar content. The combination is cultural comfort, not a health practice. Portion control still applies regardless of how consumed.
MYTH #5: Parle-G Is Low in Calories Because It's Simple
TRUTH: At 462 calories per 100g, Parle-G is similar to most biscuits. Two biscuits (14g) provide 65 calories. Underestimating simple foods leads to overconsumption. Track intake accurately.
MYTH #6: Glucose Biscuits Are Essential During Illness
TRUTH: While easy to digest when sick, Parle-G isn't medically superior for recovery. Balanced nutrition aids immune function better than simple sugars. Fruits, soups, and nutrient-rich foods are better for recovery.
NutriScore by Health Goals
| Health Goal | NutriScore | Why This Score? |
|---|---|---|
| Weight Loss |  | High carbs (76g/100g), low fiber (1.5g), refined flour base. Limit to 2 biscuits (65 cal) 2-3 times weekly. |
| Muscle Gain |  | Quick carbs for post-workout energy but minimal protein (6.5g). Pair with milk or protein shake; alone inadequate for muscle building. |
| Diabetes Management |  | High glucose and refined flour cause rapid blood sugar spikes. High GI (~75-80). Maximum 2 biscuits rarely with protein. |
| PCOS Management | | High refined carbs and sugar worsen insulin resistance significantly. Avoid or limit to very rare occasions (1-2 biscuits monthly). |
| Pregnancy Nutrition | | Can provide quick energy during nausea. Lacks essential pregnancy nutrients like folate and iron. Use sparingly, prioritize nutrient-dense foods. |
| Viral/Flu Recovery |  | Easy to digest, provides quick glucose for energy when appetite is low. Traditional comfort food during illness. Better with warm milk. |
PERSONALIZED NUTRITION
Track your meals with NutriScan for personalized NutriScores based on your specific health goals!
Blood Sugar Response to Parle-G
Understanding how Parle-G affects your blood glucose helps you make informed snacking decisions.
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
Pairing glucose biscuits with protein or healthy fat slows glucose absorption and reduces peak blood sugar:
- 🥛 Glass of milk (full-fat or low-fat) - Protein and fat buffer absorption significantly
- 🥜 Handful of almonds or peanuts - Healthy fats and protein slow glucose release
- 🧈 Peanut butter (1 tbsp) - Extends energy release, prevents crash
- 🍌 Half banana - Fiber and natural sugars moderate the spike
This combination reduces glucose spikes and prevents energy crashes, especially critical for diabetics and PCOS management.
Cultural Significance
Parle-G is more than a biscuit—it's an Indian cultural institution spanning over 80 years.
In India:
- World's largest-selling biscuit brand by volume
- Iconic yellow packaging recognized across all socioeconomic levels
- Symbol of affordable nutrition during food insecurity
- Childhood nostalgia for multiple generations
- Often distributed during floods, disasters as emergency food
- Part of Indian chai culture and family teatime traditions
- Featured in countless Bollywood films and advertisements
Historical Impact:
- Launched in 1939 as "Parle Gluco" during British India
- Renamed Parle-G (Glucose) post-independence
- Maintained affordable pricing despite inflation for decades
- Distributed to rural areas through extensive network
- Cultural symbol of egalitarian access to food
Global Recognition:
- Exported to 80+ countries
- Popular in diaspora communities worldwide
- UNESCO-recognized as culturally significant food product
Compare & Substitute
Parle-G vs Similar Glucose Biscuits (Per 100g)
| Nutrient | 🍪 Parle-G Original | 🍪 Britannia Tiger | 🍪 Britannia Marie | 🌾 NutriChoice Digestive |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Calories | 462 kcal | 468 kcal | 444 kcal | 465 kcal |
| Carbs | 76g | 74g | 75g | 72g |
| Fiber | 1.5g | 2g | 3g | 5g |
| Protein | 6.5g | 7g | 8g | 10g |
| Fat | 14.5g | 16g | 12g | 15g |
| Saturated Fat | 7g | 8g | 5g | 6g |
| Sugar | 27g | 24g | 18g | 12g |
| Sodium | 320mg | 300mg | 320mg | 450mg |
| Best For | Affordable energy | Kids' lunch boxes | Light tea-time | Healthier fiber option |
Frequently Asked Questions
Are Parle-G biscuits good for weight loss?
Parle-G biscuits are not ideal for weight loss due to high carbohydrate content (76g per 100g), high sugar (27g), and low fiber (1.5g).
Best practices: Limit to 2 biscuits (14g, 65 calories) as rare treats 2-3 times weekly; always pair with protein (milk, nuts); account for calories in daily limit; choose high-fiber alternatives like oats biscuits or NutriChoice for regular snacking.
Can diabetics eat Parle-G biscuits?
Diabetics should avoid or severely limit Parle-G consumption. The glucose and refined flour cause rapid and significant blood sugar spikes.
Tips for diabetics:
- Maximum 1-2 biscuits very rarely (monthly, not weekly)
- Always pair with protein (milk, nuts, cheese) to slow absorption
- Best timing: mid-morning only, never on empty stomach
- Monitor blood sugar 1 and 2 hours after eating
- Better alternatives: NutriChoice Digestive, sugar-free options, nuts
Consult your healthcare provider for personalized advice.
How much protein is in Parle-G?
Parle-G Original contains 6.5g protein per 100g. A typical serving of 2 biscuits (14g) provides approximately 0.9g protein, making them a minimal protein source. For muscle building or high-protein diets, combine with protein-rich foods like milk, Greek yogurt, or protein shakes.
What are the main health benefits of Parle-G?
Key Benefits:
- Quick Energy: Glucose provides immediate energy for physical activity
- Affordability: One of India's most affordable calorie sources
- Accessibility: Available in even remote rural areas
- Emergency Nutrition: Shelf-stable, useful during disasters/food insecurity
- Digestibility: Easy to consume during illness when appetite is low
Important: Benefits are situational; Parle-G lacks essential nutrients and shouldn't be a dietary staple.
When is the best time to eat Parle-G?
Depends on your goal:
- Weight Loss: Avoid or limit to 2 biscuits mid-morning (9-11 AM) with milk. Never late night.
- Muscle Gain: Post-workout within 30 minutes (3-4 biscuits) paired with milk/protein shake for quick carb replenishment.
- Diabetes: Avoid; if absolutely necessary, 1-2 biscuits only mid-morning with nuts. Never on empty stomach.
- General Energy: Mid-afternoon (3-4 PM) with chai as traditional pick-me-up snack.
IMPORTANT NOTE
Avoid eating Parle-G as breakfast replacement. The glucose spike and crash will leave you hungrier and less focused within 2 hours.
How many Parle-G biscuits should I eat per day?
General Guidelines:
- 2-4 biscuits (14-28g) - Occasional snack for most people (65-130 calories)
- 2 biscuits (14g) - Maximum for weight loss, 2-3 times weekly only
- 1-2 biscuits (7-14g) - Diabetes, PCOS, insulin resistance, very rarely
- 4-6 biscuits (28-42g) - Athletes, active individuals post-workout with protein
Avoid excess: More than 6 biscuits daily (42g, 195 calories) adds significant refined carbs and sugar without nutritional benefits.
Track with NutriScan app to see how Parle-G fits your personal nutrition goals.
Can I eat Parle-G on an empty stomach?
Strongly not recommended for most people, especially those with:
- Diabetes: Causes severe blood sugar spike without any buffer
- PCOS/Insulin Resistance: Worsens hormonal imbalances significantly
- Acid Reflux/GERD: Sugar on empty stomach triggers acid production
- Weight Loss Goals: Empty calories spike insulin, increase later hunger
- Hypoglycemia Risk: Quick spike followed by crash can cause symptoms
Better approach: Always have Parle-G with milk, nuts, or after a protein-containing meal. Choose eggs, oats, or fruits for empty-stomach eating.
