They look like classic biscuits, but the labels on their packaging attribute them with healthy virtues: sugar-free, rich in fibre, fat-free… or even enriched with fiber or vitamins. These are the so-called diet biscuits which are aimed at all those who pay attention to their figure or their health. And it is this kind of claim that raises questions! ” No one eats cookies to be healthy. It is a pleasure food. recalls Anthony Fardet, researcher in preventive nutrition.
To understand their health benefits, you have to take a closer look at the list of their ingredients. ” What matters is the degree of transformation. The more they are processed, the less “dietetic” they are. To reduce sugar, ultra-processed ingredients such as sweeteners, emulsifiersaromas, fiber isolates… So to take care of your health, it’s not the best ! Associating the term biscuit and dietetics is curious and contradictory ” emphasizes the specialist.
The term diet does not mean “diet”. Their caloric intake remains high and not so far from that of classic biscuits. 400 calories per 100g on some packets, which is quite a lot. And we do not see how they can claim to be “dietetic” or “good for health”.
The key difference is that they may contain fiber and vitamins that their counterparts lack. But what’s the point if they’re drowned in additives or ultra-processed ingredients?
” Wanting to lighten cookies does not make sense. This misleads consumers because they will imagine that they can eat more. Which suits the manufacturers because they will sell more. It is better to eat traditional cookies with real butter and true sugarand without ultra-transformation markers, provided you stay in moderation, rather than buying these products ! recommends Anthony Fardet.
