It’s official: Chocolate Digestives are still Britain’s best-loved biscuit. As the nation marks National Biscuit Day on 29 May, new research from McVitie’s has revealed not only our top picks but also the quirky habits behind how, when and where we eat them.
According to the Great British Biscuit Audit, which polled 2,000 adults, Chocolate Digestives lead the way with 36%, followed closely by Shortbread (34%) and Custard Creams (21%). But while the Chocolate Digestive reigns supreme, only 14% of people eat it the “correct” way, with the chocolate side facing down. That method was recently backed by Anthony Coulson, general manager at McVitie’s Stockport factory.
The research also uncovered a few biscuit-based secrets. Londoners were named the most covert biscuit lovers, with 29% admitting they hide their stash. One in five said they store biscuits in their underwear drawer. Other top hiding spots include bedside tables (37%) and wardrobes (28%).
When it comes to biscuit turn-offs, the biggest ‘ick’ is leaving a biscuit half-eaten, according to 15% of respondents. Another 14% said they are put off when someone eats an entire pack in one go.
Biscuit-eating locations vary too. While 55% of Brits prefer to enjoy a biscuit on the sofa, others admit to snacking in bed (9%), in the car (9%), in the park (10%) or even in the bath (1%).
Tea remains the classic dunking partner, with 45% of people reaching for a cuppa. But some are getting more creative. One in ten crumble biscuits into yoghurt, and 5% pair theirs with cheese.
A McVitie’s spokesperson said:
“Every day is National Biscuit Day for us at McVitie’s, but we wanted to celebrate the weird and wonderful ways Brits are eating biscuits. Whether you’re team Rich Tea or you dig a Digestive, enjoy biscuits for breakfast or at bedtime, eat Chocolate Digestives choc up or choc down, everyone has their own unique way to enjoy a biscuit. McVitie’s biscuits have been a staple in British households for over 180 years and Brits can look forward to many more years of these cherished biscuit-based moments.”
So whether you dunk, nibble, hide or hoard your favourites, today is the perfect excuse to pop the kettle on and raise a biscuit in celebration.
