You’re standing at the medical store counter, and the pharmacist slides a small pack of Threptin biscuits across to you. “Doctor recommended these for your mother’s recovery,” he says.
You glance at the price tag—₹300+ for just 275 grams. Your mind immediately does the math: that’s more expensive than a kilogram of chicken, a dozen eggs, or several kilos of dal combined.
The packaging looks medical and serious. “High Protein,” it declares. “Fortified with Vitamins.” “Ideal for Recovery.” The chemist assures you they’re excellent, nutritious, necessary even.
But here’s the question nagging at you: Are Threptin biscuits actually worth this premium price, or is this just clever marketing making regular protein seem medicinal?
You’re not alone in wondering. Threptin has been recommended by doctors across India for decades—for recovering patients, elderly parents, pregnant women, growing children. It’s positioned as a medical necessity, a protein supplement disguised as a biscuit.
But when you compare the nutrition to everyday foods like eggs, peanuts, or dal—all significantly cheaper—the “necessary supplement” image starts to blur.
The honest truth? Threptin biscuits DO have genuine benefits for specific situations—illness recovery, elderly nutrition, pregnancy support. But for healthy individuals just looking for protein? You’re probably paying a massive premium for something your regular diet can provide much cheaper.
In this review, I’ll break down exactly what Threptin offers, who actually needs it, and whether these expensive medical biscuits deserve a place in your family’s budget.
What Exactly Are Threptin Biscuits?
First, let’s be clear: Threptin isn’t a regular biscuit like Parle-G or Good Day. It’s a medical nutrition supplement formulated as a biscuit for convenience.
Threptin (also called Threptin Diskettes) is a high-calorie, high-protein supplement made primarily from casein protein—a slow-digesting milk protein that provides sustained amino acid release to your muscles.
What makes it different from regular biscuits:
Unlike your typical tea-time biscuits made from maida, sugar, and vegetable oil, Threptin is specifically formulated to deliver:
- 30g protein per 100g (vs. 5-7g in regular biscuits)
- Zero cholesterol
- Zero trans fats
- Fortified with B vitamins (B1, B2, B3)
- Slow-release casein protein
Available variants:
- Original Threptin (chocolate, vanilla, elaichi flavors)
- Threptin Lite (for diabetics—sugar-free)
- Threptin Protein Supplement (higher protein concentration)
Who typically uses it:
Doctors commonly recommend Threptin for:
- Patients recovering from surgery or illness
- Elderly people with poor appetite
- Pregnant and lactating women
- Malnourished children
- People with increased protein needs
The question isn’t whether Threptin works—it does. The question is whether YOU need it, or if there are better alternatives.
What’s Inside: Threptin Ingredients
The ingredient list is cleaner than most commercial biscuits, I’ll give them that.
Main ingredients:
- Casein protein (milk-derived, complete protein with all essential amino acids)
- Sucrose (table sugar—yes, there’s sugar in these)
- Precooked rice flour (for texture, gluten-free base)
- Edible vegetable fat (plant-based oil)
- Malt extract (for flavor and color)
- Bengal gram (chana) (additional protein and nutrients)
- Raising agents (to make them biscuit-like)
- Emulsifiers (to blend ingredients smoothly)
- Natural colors
- Vitamins (B1, B2, B3 fortification)
What’s good: ✅ Primary protein is casein (high-quality, complete protein)
✅ 100% vegetarian
✅ No artificial colors or preservatives
✅ Trans fat-free
✅ Cholesterol-free
✅ Contains some whole grains (bengal gram)
What’s not ideal: ❌ Contains sugar (23g per 100g—nearly 25% sugar!)
❌ Uses processed rice flour
❌ Still a processed supplement, not whole food
❌ Contains emulsifiers and additives
From an ingredient perspective, Threptin is definitely better than Parle-G or Marie biscuits. But it’s still a processed food, not a miracle supplement.
Threptin Nutrition Breakdown: The Numbers
Here’s what you’re actually getting per 100g (about 20-22 biscuits):
| Nutrient | Amount per 100g | % Daily Value |
|---|---|---|
| Calories | 438 | ~22% |
| Protein | 30g | 60% |
| Carbohydrates | 48g | 16% |
| Sugar | 23g | 92% (women), 64% (men) |
| Fat | 14g | ~18% |
| Cholesterol | 0mg | 0% |
| Vitamin B1 | 1.06mg | 88% |
| Vitamin B2 | 1.26mg | 97% |
| Vitamin B3 | 14mg | 88% |
Per single biscuit (approximately 5g):
- Calories: 22
- Protein: 1.5g
- Carbs: 2.4g
- Sugar: 1.15g
- Fat: 0.7g
What this actually means:
To get 30g of protein (a typical post-workout requirement), you’d need to eat 100g of Threptin—about 20 biscuits, delivering 438 calories and 23g of sugar.
Compare this to:
- 6 eggs: 36g protein, 432 calories, 0g sugar, ~₹30-36
- 100g roasted peanuts: 26g protein, 567 calories, minimal sugar, ~₹50
- 1 cup cooked dal + 2 rotis: 25g protein, ~400 calories, minimal sugar, ~₹20
The protein is there, yes. But is it worth ₹300+ when everyday foods provide similar protein for a fraction of the cost?
The Real Benefits of Threptin Biscuits
Let me be clear: Threptin does have genuine benefits—but only for specific situations.
1. High-Quality Protein (Casein)
Threptin contains 30g protein per 100g, which is genuinely impressive for a biscuit-format supplement. The casein protein is complete (contains all essential amino acids) and digests slowly, providing sustained amino acid release for 6-8 hours.
Who benefits: People recovering from illness, elderly with poor appetite, athletes needing overnight muscle recovery.
Reality check: Healthy adults can get the same protein from dal (24g per 100g), paneer (18g per 100g), or eggs (13g per egg) for much less money.
2. Convenient Protein Source
The biscuit format makes it easy to consume, especially for:
- Elderly people who struggle with chewing or digestion
- Post-surgery patients with low appetite
- People who can’t tolerate heavy foods
Who benefits: Genuinely useful for people who can’t eat regular meals.
Reality check: If you CAN eat regular food, there’s no need for expensive protein biscuits.
3. Fortified with B Vitamins
Threptin provides 88-97% of your daily B1, B2, and B3 needs per 100g. These vitamins support energy metabolism, nerve function, and red blood cell production.
Who benefits: Deficiency-prone individuals, elderly, recovering patients.
Reality check: Most Indians get adequate B vitamins from regular diet (dal, rice, vegetables, dairy).
4. Zero Cholesterol and Trans Fats
Unlike many biscuits made with hydrogenated oils, Threptin contains no trans fats or cholesterol.
Who benefits: People with heart disease concerns, high cholesterol.
Reality check: This is good, but not unique—dal, eggs (in moderation), and peanuts are also heart-healthy protein sources.
5. Suitable for Vegetarians
For vegetarians struggling to meet protein needs, Threptin offers a milk-based complete protein.
Who benefits: Vegetarians avoiding eggs, people with limited protein variety.
Reality check: Dal + rice combination provides complete protein. Paneer, curd, milk are cheaper vegetarian protein sources.
6. Good for Diabetes (Lite Version)
The casein protein digests slowly, preventing blood sugar spikes. Threptin Lite is sugar-free, making it diabetic-friendly.
Who benefits: Diabetics needing protein without sugar spikes.
Reality check: Regular Threptin has 23g sugar per 100g—diabetics MUST choose Lite version.
7. Supports Muscle Building
Casein protein helps build and repair muscle tissue, especially effective when consumed before sleep.
Who benefits: Bodybuilders, athletes, physically active individuals.
Reality check: Whey protein powder is cheaper per gram of protein. Eggs and paneer work equally well.
Who Actually NEEDS Threptin? (And Who’s Wasting Money)
Here’s the honest breakdown:
✅ You Probably NEED Threptin If:
- Recovering from surgery or serious illness (poor appetite, need easy protein)
- Elderly parent refuses to eat regular meals (convenient, palatable option)
- Pregnant/lactating with severe morning sickness (can’t tolerate heavy foods)
- Malnourished child who won’t eat dal/eggs (tastier protein delivery)
- Cancer patient undergoing treatment (easy-to-digest nutrition)
- Bedridden patient needing simple nutrition (biscuit format is convenient)
In these cases, Threptin’s premium price is justified because it solves a real problem—getting protein into someone who can’t eat regular food.
❌ You’re Probably WASTING Money If:
- You’re a healthy adult (eat dal, eggs, peanuts instead)
- Your kid eats regular meals fine (no need for expensive supplements)
- You’re bodybuilding (whey protein is cheaper per gram)
- You want general “health benefits” (marketing hype)
- You’re using it as a regular snack (way too expensive for casual snacking)
- You think it’s healthier than regular food (it’s not—it’s processed)
In these cases, save your money. Regular protein sources are more economical and equally nutritious.
Threptin vs. Everyday Indian Foods: The Price Reality
Let’s talk about what nobody else will: protein per rupee value.
To get 30g protein, here’s what you’d spend:
| Source | Amount Needed | Approximate Cost |
|---|---|---|
| Threptin | 100g (20 biscuits) | ₹110-120 |
| Eggs | 5 eggs | ₹25-40 |
| Moong dal | 125g (dry) | ₹15-18 |
| Peanuts | 115g | ₹30-35 |
| Paneer | 165g | ₹80-90 |
| Milk | 1 liter | ₹60-70 |
| Chickpeas (chana) | 100g (dry) | ₹12-15 |
The reality: Threptin is 4-8x more expensive than dal, eggs, or peanuts for the same protein.
Unless you have a specific medical need (can’t eat regular food), you’re paying a massive premium for convenience and medical branding.
Threptin Biscuits for Specific Groups
For Children
When it makes sense:
- Child is severely malnourished or underweight
- Recovering from illness with poor appetite
- Refuses to eat dal, eggs, milk (extremely picky eater)
When to skip:
- Child eats regular meals fine (give dal khichdi, eggs, milk instead)
- Just want “extra protein” (not necessary for healthy kids)
- Budget is tight (eggs and dal are far cheaper)
Recommended amount: 3-4 biscuits between meals (if genuinely needed)
For more on child nutrition, check Is Pediasure Good For Kids?
For Pregnancy
When it makes sense:
- Severe morning sickness preventing regular food intake
- Underweight and struggling to gain pregnancy weight
- Doctor specifically recommended due to nutritional deficiency
When to skip:
- Eating regular balanced diet (get protein from dal, eggs, milk, paneer)
- Only taking it because “it’s healthy” (regular food is healthier)
Recommended amount: 3-4 biscuits as snack (consult doctor first)
For Diabetes
Important: Regular Threptin has 23g sugar per 100g—diabetics should ONLY use Threptin Lite (sugar-free version).
The slow-digesting casein helps prevent blood sugar spikes, making it suitable for diabetics when used correctly.
For Bodybuilding
Reality check: Threptin works, but it’s not cost-effective for muscle building.
Better alternatives:
- Whey protein powder (cheaper per gram, faster absorption post-workout)
- Eggs (complete protein, extremely affordable)
- Paneer (high protein, builds muscle effectively)
Use Threptin only if you specifically want slow-release casein before sleep—otherwise, you’re overpaying.
For nutrition supplement comparisons, read Ensure vs Proteinx and Endura Mass Benefits
For Weight Loss
Not ideal. Threptin is high in calories (438 per 100g) and sugar (23g per 100g).
If you’re trying to lose weight, focus on whole protein sources (dal, eggs, grilled chicken, fish) which are more filling and lower in sugar.
Only exception: Threptin Lite (sugar-free) can work as occasional snack if you need convenient protein.
Are There Side Effects of Threptin?
Threptin is generally safe, but watch out for:
❌ Digestive issues – Eating too many can cause bloating, gas, or upset stomach
❌ High calorie/sugar intake – Not a lean protein source; easy to overconsume calories
❌ Not suitable as sole protein – Lacks variety of nutrients from whole foods
❌ Expensive dependency – Can become a costly habit if used unnecessarily
❌ Lactose sensitivity – Contains casein (milk protein); may cause issues for lactose-intolerant individuals
Recommended intake: Maximum 6 biscuits per day (unless doctor advises otherwise)
Better Alternatives to Threptin (For Most People)
If you’re healthy and just looking for protein, skip Threptin and choose these instead:
1. Boiled Eggs + Peanut Butter
- 2 eggs + 1 tbsp peanut butter = 18g protein
- Cost: ~₹15-20
- Complete nutrition, healthy fats, extremely filling
2. Dal Khichdi with Ghee
- Traditional, balanced, complete protein
- Cost: ~₹25-30 per serving
- Fiber, vitamins, minerals, sustained energy
3. Roasted Chana (Chickpeas)
- Portable, crunchy, protein-rich
- Cost: ~₹30 per 100g
- High fiber, keeps you full
4. Paneer Bhurji
- High protein, tasty, versatile
- Cost: ~₹40-50 per serving
- Calcium, complete protein
5. Homemade Protein Ladoo
- Mix peanuts, almonds, dates, sesame seeds
- Cost: ~₹50 per batch
- Natural, nutritious, delicious
6. Milk with Banana and Nuts
- Blend milk, banana, almonds
- Cost: ~₹30-35
- Quick, nutritious, energy-boosting
For everyday snacking comparisons that are budget-friendly, check out Is Maggi Good For Your Health?
Frequently Asked Questions
How many Threptin biscuits should I eat per day?
Maximum 6 biscuits per day for general use. For specific medical needs, follow your doctor’s recommendation. Typically, 3 biscuits between breakfast-lunch and 3 between lunch-dinner works well.
Are Threptin biscuits good for weight loss?
Not really. Regular Threptin has 438 calories and 23g sugar per 100g—too high for weight loss. Threptin Lite (sugar-free) is a better option if you must use it, but whole food protein sources are still preferable.
Can I eat Threptin during pregnancy?
Yes, Threptin is safe during pregnancy and can help meet increased protein needs. However, consult your doctor first and don’t rely solely on it—eat a balanced diet with dal, eggs, milk, vegetables, and fruits.
Are Threptin biscuits gluten-free?
Only the chocolate flavor is gluten-free. Other flavors may contain gluten. Check the packaging if you have celiac disease or gluten sensitivity.
Do Threptin biscuits taste good?
They taste like slightly sweet, mildly flavored protein biscuits—not as tasty as regular biscuits (Parle-G, Good Day), but not chalky like some protein supplements. The chocolate and elaichi flavors are most popular.
Can diabetics eat Threptin?
Diabetics should ONLY use Threptin Lite (sugar-free version). Regular Threptin has 23g sugar per 100g, which will spike blood sugar significantly.
Are Threptin biscuits good for bodybuilding?
They can help, but they’re not the most cost-effective option. Casein protein is good for overnight muscle recovery, but whey protein powder, eggs, and paneer provide better value for money.
Is Threptin better than regular biscuits?
From a nutrition standpoint, yes—much higher protein, fortified with vitamins, zero trans fats. But from a cost perspective, it’s expensive compared to whole food protein sources.
How long do Threptin biscuits last after opening?
Once opened, consume within 3 weeks. Store in an airtight container to maintain freshness.
Where can I buy Threptin biscuits?
Available at medical stores, pharmacies, and online (Amazon, 1mg, Netmeds). Some supermarkets stock them in the health supplement section.
The Final Verdict: Are Threptin Biscuits Worth It?
Let me be absolutely clear: Threptin biscuits are worth it ONLY for specific medical situations, not for general use.
The reality:
Genuinely useful for illness recovery, elderly nutrition, specific medical needs
High-quality casein protein with good vitamin fortification
Convenient format for people who can’t eat regular meals
BUT extremely expensive compared to everyday protein sources
Not necessary for healthy individuals eating balanced diets
Contains sugar (unless you buy Lite version)
My honest recommendation:
Buy Threptin if:
✅ Your parent/child is recovering from illness and can’t eat regular food
✅ Doctor specifically recommended it for a medical reason
✅ Elderly family member refuses dal/eggs but will eat biscuits
✅ Budget allows and you have a genuine need
Skip Threptin if:
❌ You’re healthy and eat regular meals
❌ Budget is tight (eggs, dal, peanuts are far cheaper)
❌ You think it’s “healthier” than real food (it’s not)
❌ Using it as casual snacking (way too expensive)
❌ Your kid eats normally (no need for supplements)
The bottom line:
Threptin is a well-formulated medical nutrition supplement that genuinely helps specific populations—recovering patients, elderly with poor appetite, pregnant women with severe morning sickness. For these targeted needs, the premium price is justified.
But for healthy adults and children eating balanced diets? You’re paying ₹300+ for what dal (₹15), eggs (₹30), or peanuts (₹35) can provide equally well.
Don’t fall for the “medical supplement” marketing if you don’t have a medical need. Save your money, eat real food, and reserve Threptin for situations where it’s genuinely necessary.
Have you used Threptin biscuits? Did they help with recovery or specific health needs? Share your experience in the comments!
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