A Tale of Two Malt Drinks
For generations, Milo and Ovaltine have been staples in pantries worldwide, marketed as nutritious, energy-boosting beverages. While both are milk-based malt and chocolate drink mixes, their histories and brand positions differ. Ovaltine was originally created as a medicinal food supplement, while Milo was developed in Australia in the 1930s as a sports nutrition drink. Their core ingredients are similar, but specific recipes and fortification levels can vary by region, affecting the overall nutritional profile.
The Core Ingredients: Malt, Cocoa, and Milk
At the heart of both products is malt extract, derived from barley, which provides a distinctive malty flavor and is a source of carbohydrates for energy. Both also use cocoa powder for their chocolate taste. However, the balance of these primary ingredients, along with sugar and milk powder, is what gives each brand its unique characteristics.
- Milo: Often perceived as having a richer, sweeter, and more chocolate-forward taste. Its recipe typically includes malted barley, milk powder, sugar, and cocoa.
- Ovaltine: Known for a smoother, creamier, and more pronounced malty flavor, which can be less sweet than Milo depending on the version. Ovaltine's ingredients include sugar, malt extract, cocoa, and whey. Some versions, like the classic malt, contain no cocoa at all.
Nutritional Face-Off: Milo vs. Ovaltine
While both drinks are fortified with vitamins and minerals, a side-by-side comparison reveals some key differences. The nutritional content can vary significantly based on the region and the specific product line. It's also important to remember that preparation with milk significantly alters the final nutritional values.
Comparison Table (per 30g serving of powder, approximate values based on search results)
| Nutrient | Milo | Ovaltine | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Energy | 124 kcal | 112 kcal | Ovaltine (lower) |
| Protein | 3.5 g | 2.0 g | Milo (higher) |
| Carbohydrate | 20.1 g | 23.0 g | Milo (lower) |
| Total Fat | 3.0 g | 0.9 g | Ovaltine (lower) |
| Sugars | ~12.2 g | ~16.4 g | Milo (lower) |
| Vitamins & Minerals | 9 varieties | 10 varieties | Ovaltine (more) |
Note: These figures are approximate and can vary. Always check the specific product packaging for the most accurate nutritional information.
Health Benefits and Downsides
Both Milo and Ovaltine offer a range of fortified nutrients, but they are also sources of added sugar. Consumption in moderation is key to avoid the negative health effects associated with high sugar intake.
Benefits of Milo
- Energy Provision: Marketed as an energy drink, Milo provides carbohydrates from malt extract and B vitamins to help release energy from food.
- Bone Health: Like Ovaltine, it is a good source of calcium, which supports strong bones and teeth.
- Blood Production: Fortified with iron and B vitamins, it helps in red blood cell production.
Benefits of Ovaltine
- Sleep Aid: Due to its magnesium content, Ovaltine has been traditionally associated with better sleep quality and relaxation, especially when consumed before bed.
- Vitamin Rich: Contains a good profile of vitamins, including B vitamins, D, and A, which are essential for overall health.
- Bone Health: When mixed with milk, Ovaltine provides significant calcium and vitamin D, crucial for bone strength.
The Sugar Problem
Despite their fortified profiles, both products are high in added sugars. A single serving can contribute significantly to a person's daily sugar intake, potentially leading to health issues like weight gain and diabetes if over-consumed. Consumers should be mindful of how much they use and consider mixing with less sugary alternatives or reducing the amount of powder.
Taste and Texture
For many, the choice comes down to pure flavor preference. The taste profiles are a direct result of the varying proportions of ingredients:
Milo
Milo delivers a bolder, more intensely chocolatey experience, often with a slightly gritty or crunchy texture when the powder isn't fully dissolved. This flavor is what many associate with a robust "choco-malty" beverage.
Ovaltine
Ovaltine offers a smoother, creamier mouthfeel and a less overpowering malty, sometimes even slightly nutty, flavor. For those who find pure chocolate overpowering, Ovaltine provides a more balanced and comforting taste.
Making a Healthier Choice
Here are some tips for enjoying your malted drinks while minimizing the sugar intake and maximizing the nutritional benefits:
- Reduce the powder: Use fewer scoops of powder than recommended to decrease the sugar content per serving.
- Choose your milk wisely: Opt for skim milk or unsweetened plant-based milk to avoid extra calories and sugar, while still benefiting from added protein and nutrients.
- Add your own flavor: Enhance the taste with a dash of cinnamon, vanilla extract, or stevia instead of relying on the powder's sugar.
- Consider product variations: Look for lower-sugar versions or the classic malt variations, which may have different nutritional information.
Conclusion: Which Malted Drink is Right for You?
The debate over whether is Milo or Ovaltine better for you has no single answer. Both offer a source of energy and added micronutrients, but both also contain substantial amounts of added sugar. Your decision should be based on your taste preference and your specific health goals.
If you prefer a richer, more chocolatey taste and a slightly higher protein content per serving, Milo may be your choice. If you enjoy a creamier, maltier taste and are seeking more sleep-friendly benefits from magnesium, Ovaltine might be a better fit. Ultimately, the healthiest approach is to consume either beverage in moderation as part of a balanced diet. For comprehensive guidance on added sugar consumption, consult resources like those from the American Heart Association.
