Does MILO have protein powder and how does it compare?

December 10, 2025 •

4 min read

While the classic MILO formula was created in 1934 primarily as a vitamin-rich energy supplement for children, the company has since released specific variants to address modern dietary needs. The question, 'Does MILO have protein powder,' now has a more complex answer that depends on which specific product you choose.

Quick Summary

MILO offers a high-protein version, MILO Pro, but its protein content is greatly enhanced by adding milk. Standard MILO contains minimal protein, functioning more as a carbohydrate-heavy energy drink for active individuals.

Key Points

Standard MILO is not a protein powder: It is a malted chocolate energy drink that contains low levels of protein, primarily derived from its milk content when prepared.
MILO Pro is a protein-enriched product: It is specifically formulated with more protein than the classic version, aimed at active individuals.
Milk significantly boosts protein: The majority of the protein in a glass of MILO (both standard and Pro) comes from the milk it is mixed with, a fact that has led to consumer discussions.
MILO is not a substitute for dedicated protein powder: For high protein intake, adding a separate scoop of unflavored protein powder to regular MILO is more effective than relying on MILO or MILO Pro alone.
High in carbs and sugar: Both standard MILO and MILO Pro contain considerable amounts of carbohydrates and sugar, making them primarily energy-focused rather than solely protein-centric.
DIY high-protein shakes are an option: Mixing regular MILO with milk, a banana, and a scoop of your preferred protein powder is an easy way to customize a high-protein shake.

Standard MILO: Not a Protein Powder

For decades, MILO has been a popular malted chocolate beverage enjoyed worldwide, particularly by children and athletes. The original formula, made from malt barley, milk powder, sugar, and cocoa, contains a basic amount of protein derived from its milk and malt ingredients. However, it is fundamentally a low-protein, high-carbohydrate drink designed to provide energy rather than a concentrated source of protein for muscle building or repair.

When a standard 20g serving of MILO powder is mixed with 200mL of skim milk, the total protein content significantly increases from the powder's initial ~2.5g to approximately 10g. This is because the majority of the protein comes from the added milk, not the MILO powder itself. The primary nutritional role of standard MILO is to provide quick-release and sustained energy from its malt and sugar content, complemented by essential vitamins and minerals.

The Rise of MILO Pro

Recognizing the growing market for high-protein products, Nestlé introduced MILO Pro in select markets. This variant is specifically marketed to teens and adults with active lifestyles who are looking for a higher protein intake. MILO Pro's formula differs from the original by having a higher protein concentration per 100g of powder. A key aspect of its marketing, however, is the emphasis on the protein content when served with milk, a point that has led to some public debate.

A 33g serving of MILO Pro powder contains around 6.3g of protein. When mixed with 250mL of skim milk, the total protein per serving rises to an impressive 15.5g. This boost is clearly stated on the packaging, yet some consumers have expressed concerns that the product's marketing leans heavily on the milk's contribution to the protein count. This highlights a crucial distinction: MILO Pro is a protein-enriched malt beverage mix, not a pure protein powder supplement.

A Comparison of Protein Sources

To better understand the differences, consider a comparison between standard MILO, MILO Pro, and a typical pure protein powder. This comparison reveals why MILO, even in its high-protein form, is not a direct substitute for a dedicated protein supplement.


Feature	Standard MILO (per serve with milk)	MILO Pro (per serve with milk)	Typical Whey Protein Powder (per serve)
Primary Goal	Energy and essential nutrients for active kids	Enriched nutrition for active individuals	Concentrated protein source for muscle growth and repair
Protein per Serve	~10g (with 200mL skim milk)	~15.5g (with 250mL skim milk)	~20-30g (depending on brand/type)
Source of Protein	Mostly from added milk, some from malt	Mixture from powder and added milk	Whey, casein, or plant-based isolates
Main Macronutrient	Carbohydrates (Sugars)	Carbohydrates and protein	Protein
Nutrients	Vitamins B, C, D; Calcium; Iron	Vitamins B, C, D; Calcium; Iron; Magnesium	Often fortified with vitamins, minerals, and amino acids
Use Case	Breakfast drink, energy boost	Post-workout recovery, nutritional supplement	Bodybuilding, meal replacement, high-protein snack

Boosting Your Protein with MILO

For those who prefer the classic choc-malt taste but need a significant protein boost, there are simple ways to achieve this without relying on MILO Pro. Adding a scoop of unflavored or vanilla-flavored protein powder to a regular MILO and milk shake can effectively increase the protein content to a level comparable to or even higher than many dedicated shakes.

Here's a list of protein-boosting MILO shake variations:

Classic Boost: Mix your standard MILO with a scoop of unflavored whey or casein protein and milk. This maintains the traditional taste while adding a powerful protein kick.
Banana-MILO Power Shake: Blend MILO powder, milk, a banana, and a scoop of protein powder for a more substantial, nutrient-rich shake.
Yogurt Thickshake: For a thicker consistency and extra protein, blend MILO, milk, and a scoop of low-fat Greek yogurt.
Plant-Based Power-up: Use a plant-based MILO alternative with a vegan protein powder and your choice of almond or soy milk for a dairy-free option. Some varieties of MILO have ingredients like soy already.

Conclusion: The Final Word on MILO and Protein

In conclusion, the claim that MILO has protein powder is inaccurate. Standard MILO is a low-protein energy drink, while MILO Pro is a protein-enriched beverage mix. The high protein figures advertised are largely dependent on the inclusion of milk, which is a protein source in itself. While MILO Pro is a convenient way to boost protein, for those seeking a genuinely high-protein supplement for serious athletic goals or significant dietary needs, adding a separate, dedicated protein powder to either standard or MILO Pro is a more direct and potent approach. Ultimately, whether MILO is a suitable protein source depends on the individual's specific nutritional goals and the product variant chosen.

How to Find More Info

For further reading on nutritional information and product specifics, Nestlé's global site is an authoritative resource. The site features brand details and local product information that can help you decipher the nutritional content of specific MILO products available in your region.(https://www.nestle.com/brands/drinks/milo)

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, standard MILO powder contains a small amount of protein from its ingredients, particularly the milk powder and malt. However, the amount is minimal, with a typical 20g serving containing around 2.5g of protein.

MILO Pro is a high-protein variant formulated with a higher concentration of protein per 100g of powder than standard MILO. It is specifically marketed for post-exercise recovery and active lifestyles.

For both standard MILO and MILO Pro, a significant portion of the total protein comes from the added milk. For example, a glass of MILO Pro and milk gets most of its 15.5g of protein from the milk.

MILO can be used as a pre- or post-workout drink due to its carbohydrate and nutrient content, which provides energy and aids in replenishing nutrients. For a more significant protein recovery, adding extra protein is recommended.

No, MILO is not a complete protein powder supplement. It is a malted beverage mix with added vitamins and minerals. For a high concentration of protein specifically for muscle repair and growth, a dedicated protein powder is more suitable.

When a 33g serving of MILO Pro powder is mixed with 250mL of skim milk, it provides approximately 15.5g of protein.

You can make a high-protein MILO shake by blending standard MILO powder, milk, and a scoop of your favorite protein powder. Adding ingredients like a banana or yogurt can further increase the protein content and thickness.