Key Ingredients (Typical):
Refined Wheat Flour (Maida) - often around 65-73%
Sugar
Refined Palm Oil (or other edible vegetable oil)
Invert Sugar Syrup
Milk Solids
Raising Agents (e.g., Ammonium Bicarbonate, Sodium Bicarbonate)
Iodized Salt
Emulsifiers (e.g., Soya Lecithin, Mono & Diglycerides)
Vitamins and Minerals (often enriched with 7 vitamins and 3 minerals, including Calcium, Iron, and various B vitamins)
Added Flavors (Nature identical and artificial, typically milk and vanilla)
Nutritional Aspects: Britannia Marie Gold is often marketed as a healthier biscuit option due to several features:
Zero Trans-Fat: A significant selling point, addressing health concerns related to trans fats.
Low in Fat and Zero Cholesterol: They are considered a relatively low-fat biscuit compared to many other cookie varieties.
Enriched with Vitamins and Minerals: The added nutrients contribute to their "wholesome" image. For example, per 100g, they contain approximately 443 calories, with a macronutrient breakdown of about 70% carbohydrates, 22% fat, and 7% protein.
Appearance:
Typically round with a flat surface.
They usually have small perforations (holes) on their surface, which help in even baking and contribute to their crispness.
They have a light golden-brown color.
Popular Uses:
Tea-time Staple: Their primary and most popular use is as a companion to tea or coffee. They are designed to be dunked and enjoyed.
Light Snack: A go-to option for a quick, light snack at any time of the day.
Breakfast Biscuits: Some people prefer them as a light breakfast option.
Ingredient in Desserts: Marie biscuits are frequently used as a base for various desserts like biscuit puddings, cheesecakes, and layered desserts due to their neutral flavor and ability to absorb moisture.
Baby Food: Historically, crushed Marie biscuits mixed with milk have been a common first solid food for babies in many Indian households.
In essence, Britannia Marie Gold Biscuits are a beloved household name in India, cherished for their light, crisp texture, mild taste, and fortified nutritional profile, making them an ideal and versatile tea-time partner and snack.