The British treat doesn’t get the love it deserves on this side of the pond.
The first time I saw a package of “digestives” next to the cookies at the grocery store, the label called to mind upset stomach remedies more than the promise of a delicious snack. Digestive biscuits are simply semi-sweet biscuits that have a slightly raspy texture to them—a good treat when you want something somewhat neutral to go with your coffee or tea. Why does such a cookie sound so unfamiliar to Americans?MTN DEW Baja Blast Hot Sauce Is a Gorgeous Oddity Share Subtitles
While digestives don’t sound frilly on paper, they are satisfying and comforting to bite down on—a “session” cookie, unlike most of the ones you’ll find at the store. Part of what makes digestive biscuits so interesting is that while they’re part of daily life in the United Kingdom, their popularity hasn’t expanded to the US market. Advertisement
What exactly does “digestive” mean, anyway?
The “digestive” part of digestive biscuits makes these cookies sound like somewhat of a health food. But the name actually refers to one of the crucial ingredients in the batter, sodium bicarbonate (aka baking soda), which is also known to briefly alleviate an upset stomach. (Tums is primarily made of baking soda, a known acid reducer.) The cookies are also made with whole wheat flour, which has more fiber than all-purpose flour, adding bulkiness to the final product. Advertisement
When it comes down to it, though, they’re similar to graham crackers; I’d take any health claims with a grain of salt.
Interesting Facts – Digestive Biscuit – why is it called that?
FAQ
Is there an American equivalent of digestive biscuits?
What can I use instead of digestive biscuits?
What do the English call digestive biscuits?
Are digestive biscuits similar to graham crackers?
Are digestive biscuits common in the United States?
Digestive biscuits are easy to find in some parts of the world but they’re not so common in the United States. If you need to replace them in a desert then try Graham crackers, BelVita, Marie biscuits, Hobnobs, or shortbread as your best options.
Name some Low GI biscuits for Diabetics?
Biscuits are not the most recommended products for diabetic patient consumption as they have flour and sugars, which are high in starch and carbohydrates. Usually, biscuits and cookies made with sugar free options and substituted with oatmeal, millet, nut and other low carbohydrate flours are the ones to opt for if you are searching for diabetic safe biscuits. Some of the low GI biscuits are: 1. Millet cookies: Millet is a healthier option to choose for and is a healthy substitute for rice, wheat and flours. They are less processed and nutritionally richer. 2. Multi-grain sugar-free biscuits: They are made of ragi, oats, wheat flour, soya, fenugreek and bajra. These biscuits are great as they have no cholesterol, zero trans-fat, have prebiotic properties and are rich in fiber. 3. Oats and almond biscuits: These are high in protein and fiber. Almonds also add a greater flavor and crunch to the healthy oats biscuits.
What is a digestive biscuit?
The “digestive” part of digestive biscuits makes these cookies sound like somewhat of a health food. But the name actually refers to one of the crucial ingredients in the batter, sodium bicarbonate (aka baking soda), which is also known to briefly alleviate an upset stomach. (Tums is primarily made of baking soda, a known acid reducer.)
Who makes digestive biscuits?
The biggest manufacturer of digestive biscuits is McVities; they produce a range of digestives including a chocolate-topped version. Digestive biscuits are easy to find in some parts of the world but they’re not so common in the United States.