What is Arla Big Milk?
Arla Big Milk is a fresh, whole cow's milk from British farms that is specifically designed for toddlers from 12 months and older. Unlike standard milk, it is filtered for longer-lasting freshness and fortified with additional vitamins and iron to support a child's growth and development. While marketed to a younger audience, it is also perfectly suitable for adults to drink. The milk is pasteurised and homogenised and is often found in eye-catching packaging featuring characters like the Gruffalo. Arla Foods is a farmer-owned dairy cooperative, meaning the profits go back to the farmers who own the business.
The Nutritional Profile
One of the main selling points of Arla Big Milk is its enriched nutritional profile. Here’s a breakdown of what it contains per 100ml:
- Vitamin D: 2.2µg, which contributes to the normal function of the immune system and is needed for normal growth and development of bones.
- Vitamin A: 78.0µg, which contributes to the maintenance of normal vision and normal development.
- Iron: 1.2mg, which contributes to normal cognitive development in children.
- Calcium: 122mg, which is naturally present and essential for healthy bones and teeth.
It is important to note that Arla Big Milk does not contain added Vitamin C, which is included in the vitamin drops recommended by the NHS for children aged 6 months to 5 years. This difference is a significant factor in the cost-benefit analysis for parents.
Taste and Reception
Customer reviews on platforms like Ocado and Mumsnet are generally very positive, with parents praising the creamy taste that their children enjoy. Some parents report that their fussy eaters are more likely to drink this milk compared to regular milk, which can provide peace of mind. The long shelf life due to the filtering process is another benefit frequently mentioned by satisfied customers.
Arla Big Milk vs. Alternatives: A Comparison
Here is a comparison table to help you weigh Arla Big Milk against its main alternatives.
| Feature | Arla Big Milk | Standard Whole Milk | Standard Milk + NHS Vitamin Drops |
|---|---|---|---|
| Vitamin A | Yes (78µg per 100ml) | No (naturally occurring) | Yes (via drops, 223µg/day) |
| Vitamin D | Yes (2.2µg per 100ml) | No (naturally occurring) | Yes (via drops, 10µg/day) |
| Iron | Yes (1.2mg per 100ml) | No | No |
| Vitamin C | No | No | Yes (via drops, 20mg/day) |
| Price | Premium (significantly higher) | Basic (lower cost) | Medium (milk cost + drop cost) |
| Convenience | High (ready-fortified) | High (widely available) | Low (requires separate drops) |
The Cost-Benefit Analysis
The most significant consideration for many parents is the premium price tag. Arla Big Milk costs substantially more than standard whole milk due to its filtering and vitamin enrichment. The question is whether the added nutrients justify the extra cost. For some, the convenience of having an all-in-one product that their child enjoys is invaluable. It removes the hassle of remembering to administer separate vitamin drops.
However, health guidance from bodies like the First Steps Nutrition Trust points out that the fortification in Big Milk is different from the NHS-recommended vitamin drops, which also contain Vitamin C. The Trust notes that 350ml of Arla Big Milk provides slightly more vitamin A than the drops but less vitamin D. For families on low incomes, the NHS Healthy Start scheme provides free vitamin drops, making the 'standard milk + drops' option far more affordable and aligning better with official recommendations. For more detailed nutritional information and comparisons, consult the First Steps Nutrition Trust FAQ.
The Verdict: Is Arla Big Milk Worth It?
Ultimately, whether Arla Big Milk is worth it depends on your family's priorities and financial situation. If your toddler is a picky eater and consistently refuses regular milk but happily drinks Arla Big Milk, the extra cost might be a worthwhile investment to ensure they get essential nutrients. The convenience of a ready-fortified product is a major draw for busy parents.
However, if cost is a primary concern, or if your child is not a fussy milk drinker, the combination of standard whole milk and NHS-recommended vitamin drops offers a more cost-effective solution. The NHS drops also provide vitamin C, which Arla Big Milk lacks, and align with broader public health guidance. The decision boils down to a trade-off between convenience and cost, all while considering your child's dietary habits.
Conclusion
Arla Big Milk is a high-quality, fortified whole milk that delivers on its promises of added vitamins and a creamy taste that appeals to many toddlers. Its farmer-owned status and positive parent reviews are significant strengths. However, its premium price and differing fortification profile compared to NHS-recommended drops mean it is not the only, or necessarily the best, choice for every family. Parents must weigh the convenience and palatability against the higher cost and alternative options to make the best decision for their specific circumstances.
