Deciphering the Caffeine in MILO
For many, MILO is a nostalgic, comforting chocolate malt drink, but its name can sometimes cause confusion, especially when people refer to a 'MILO tea.' In countries like Malaysia or Singapore, a drink called 'Milo tea' might refer to a beverage where Milo powder is mixed with tea, milk, and sugar, resulting in a combination of ingredients that complicates the caffeine question. It's crucial to first differentiate the caffeine naturally occurring in the Milo powder itself from any added caffeine from tea leaves.
The Source of Caffeine in MILO Powder
Caffeine is a naturally occurring compound in cocoa, which is one of the primary ingredients in Milo powder. The amount is very small compared to other caffeinated beverages. According to Milo Australia's FAQ, a 20g serving of Milo powder contains between 2.2mg and 4.8mg of caffeine. For context, a standard cup of instant coffee contains approximately 70mg of caffeine. This means you would need to consume a very large quantity of Milo to experience the same caffeine effect as a single cup of coffee, and this has to be balanced against the increased sugar content.
Comparing MILO's Caffeine to Other Drinks
To illustrate just how low the caffeine content is, consider this comparison:
- Milo (20g powder): ~2.2 - 4.8mg caffeine.
- Instant Coffee (2g): ~70mg caffeine.
- Espresso Shot: Equivalent to needing 92 cups of Milo powder for the same caffeine.
- Black Tea (brewed): Typically contains 15-70mg per 8oz serving.
- Energy Drinks: Can contain hundreds of milligrams of caffeine per serving.
This comparison clearly shows that the Milo powder contributes a negligible amount of caffeine. However, if a 'Milo tea' is prepared by combining Milo powder with a black or other caffeinated tea, the final beverage's caffeine content will be dictated primarily by the tea's brewing strength and volume, not the Milo powder.
Milo Tea: A Hybrid Beverage
In many Asian cafes and homes, a 'Milo tea' is a popular drink. This beverage is not an official Milo product but a culinary creation that blends Milo powder with brewed tea. For example, a recipe might call for a teabag steeped in hot water, with Milo powder, sweetened condensed milk, and fresh milk added afterward. In this scenario, the caffeine comes from two sources: the natural cocoa in the Milo and the brewed tea leaves. The caffeine content will be significantly higher than a pure Milo drink and can vary depending on the type of tea used and the brewing time.
Theobromine: The Other Stimulant in Cocoa
Beyond caffeine, Milo also contains theobromine, another naturally occurring stimulant found in cocoa. Theobromine is a weaker stimulant than caffeine and has a gentler, more prolonged effect on the body, including some diuretic properties. Some studies have measured significant amounts of theobromine in Milo powder. While often overlooked, theobromine can contribute to the drink's energizing properties, albeit in a different way than caffeine. This is why even a pure Milo drink can provide a mild lift without the same jittery effect associated with high-caffeine beverages.
Conclusion
So, how much caffeine is in a Milo tea? The answer depends entirely on the preparation. If you're referring to a simple Milo and milk beverage, the caffeine content is extremely low, sourced only from the cocoa powder. This makes it a great low-caffeine alternative for those who are sensitive to stimulants. However, if you are drinking a 'Milo tea' that combines Milo powder with brewed tea, the caffeine content will be higher and depends on the tea used. For consumers concerned about their caffeine intake, it's important to specify whether they are having a plain Milo drink or a Milo-tea hybrid. Always check the ingredients and preparation method to know exactly what you are consuming.
Caffeine Comparison: Milo vs. Common Beverages
| Beverage | Serving Size | Approximate Caffeine (mg) |
|---|---|---|
| Milo Powder | 20g | 2.2 - 4.8 |
| Instant Coffee | 2g powder (~1 cup) | ~70 |
| Brewed Black Tea | 8 oz | 15 - 70 |
| Milo’s Sweet Tea (USA) | 12 oz | 37 - 43 |
| Energy Drink (variable) | 8 oz | 70 - 150+ |
