Understanding Lidl's Custard Range
Lidl offers a variety of custard products to suit different needs, from quick, ready-to-serve options to mixes you can prepare at home. The calorie content is not universal across all products and is influenced by several factors, including the type of custard, its ingredients, and, for mixes, how it is prepared. It is important to look at the nutritional information per 100g to accurately compare products and understand their impact on your diet.
Ready-to-Serve Custard
For shoppers seeking convenience, Lidl's ready-to-serve cartons are a popular choice. The Ready to serve Custard – Lidl – 500 g has been documented to contain approximately 101 kcal per 100g. This value is based on its typical ingredients, which include reconstituted skimmed milk and buttermilk, sugar, and palm oil. This makes it a moderately caloric dessert option, with a standard 125g serving pot providing around 126 calories.
Instant Custard Mix
Custard powder, like the Lidl Castello Instant Custard, offers more control over preparation and can have a different calorie profile. The powder itself is high in carbohydrates, but the final calorie count depends on the type of milk and sugar used. For example, preparing an instant mix with full-fat milk will result in a much higher calorie count per 100g compared to using low-fat or skimmed milk. A prepared serving can vary significantly, ranging from 67 kcal per 100g for a 'no added sugar' version to 164 kcal or more depending on the recipe.
Deluxe Madagascan Vanilla Custard
Lidl's premium range often includes products with a richer formulation, and the Deluxe Madagascan Vanilla Custard is no exception. At 226 calories per 100g, this product is considerably more indulgent. This higher calorie density is due to its creamier recipe, which typically includes full-fat dairy, a higher sugar content, and natural vanilla for a superior flavour. This option is designed for a more decadent dessert experience and should be consumed in smaller, more mindful portions.
Comparison of Lidl Custard Products
To help you compare the different options, here is a table summarizing the calorie and macronutrient information based on the typical values per 100g.
| Product | Energy (kcal/100g) | Fat (g/100g) | Saturated Fat (g/100g) | Carbohydrates (g/100g) | Sugars (g/100g) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ready-to-Serve Custard (e.g., 500g carton) | ~101 | ~2.8 | ~1.3 | ~16.1 | ~10.4 |
| Instant Custard Mix (prepared with semi-skimmed milk) | ~164 | ~4.5 | ~0.9 | ~29.1 | ~17 |
| Deluxe Madagascan Vanilla Custard | ~226 | ~14.9 | ~5.3 | ~19.8 | ~17.8 |
Note: Calories for instant mix are approximate and depend heavily on preparation methods.
How to Reduce Calories in Custard
If you're watching your calorie intake but still crave this creamy dessert, there are several ways to reduce the calorie load without sacrificing flavour.
- Use lighter milk: When preparing custard from a mix, swap whole milk for a lower-fat alternative like semi-skimmed, skimmed, or a plant-based milk. For example, using skimmed milk can significantly lower the fat and calorie content.
- Control the sugar: For instant or homemade custard, you can reduce the amount of added sugar or use a low-calorie sweetener alternative.
- Portion control: The simplest method is to consume a smaller portion. The high calorie counts for some products highlight the importance of portion size, especially for richer varieties.
- Add low-calorie toppings: Instead of high-calorie sauces or biscuits, top your custard with fresh fruit, berries, or a light sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg for added flavour without extra calories.
- Opt for low-fat versions: Check the labels for explicitly low-fat custard options, such as the
Lidl Salco Low Fat Custard, which is significantly lower in calories than its regular counterparts.
Conclusion
To determine precisely how many calories are in Lidl custard, you must first identify the specific product. The range is wide, from approximately 101 kcal per 100g for a standard ready-to-serve custard to over 200 kcal per 100g for premium deluxe versions. Instant mixes offer flexibility, as the final calorie count is determined by your choice of milk and sugar. By paying close attention to product labels and opting for low-fat ingredients or smaller portion sizes, you can enjoy this classic dessert while staying on track with your dietary goals. For further information on the composition of these products, resources like Open Food Facts can provide detailed ingredient lists and nutritional breakdowns, such as the entry for Lidl's ready-to-serve custard.
