Is Ovomaltine Considered Healthy? Weighing the Pros and Cons

January 14, 2026 •

4 min read

Over a century ago, Ovomaltine was developed in Switzerland as a nutritional supplement to combat malnutrition, and was originally known as Ovomaltine before being trademarked as Ovaltine in some markets. Today, this malted beverage mix is enjoyed worldwide, but its health halo has come into question, with many asking, "is Ovomaltine considered healthy?".

Quick Summary

This guide provides a detailed look at the nutritional content of Ovomaltine, balancing its positive attributes like fortification with essential vitamins and minerals against the drawbacks, specifically its high sugar and calorie content. It outlines who can benefit from its nutrients and the importance of mindful consumption.

Key Points

Nutrient Fortification: Ovomaltine is heavily fortified with vitamins (A, D, B-vitamins) and minerals (calcium, iron, copper), offering a nutritional boost, particularly when mixed with milk.
High in Added Sugar: A major downside is its high added sugar content, which varies by market (Swiss vs. American formulations), posing health risks when consumed excessively.
Considered an Ultra-Processed Food: Some food scoring systems classify certain Ovomaltine products as ultra-processed due to multiple processing steps and ingredients.
Dependent on Preparation: The nutritional benefits are highly dependent on what it is mixed with; adding milk increases protein and calcium, while mixing with water offers minimal protein.
Best Consumed in Moderation: Experts recommend consuming Ovomaltine as an occasional treat rather than a regular dietary supplement due to its sugar content.
Potential for Certain Diets: It can be a useful nutritional supplement for those with poor appetite, but should be balanced with a whole-foods diet.
Alternatives Available: Healthier options for chocolatey drinks include mixing raw cacao with milk and natural sweeteners, offering more control over ingredients.

Ovomaltine's Nutritional Strengths

Ovomaltine, known in some regions as Ovaltine, has a long history of being marketed as a healthy supplement, primarily due to its fortification with a range of essential micronutrients. When mixed with milk, it provides a convenient way to boost the daily intake of several key vitamins and minerals, which can be particularly beneficial for those with poor appetite or picky eaters.

Key Vitamins and Minerals

Vitamins A and D: These fat-soluble vitamins are crucial for vision, bone health, and a properly functioning immune system. A single serving, when mixed with milk, can deliver a significant percentage of the daily recommended intake.
B Vitamins: Ovomaltine is an excellent source of several B vitamins, including B1 (thiamin), B2 (riboflavin), B6, niacin, and B12. These are vital for converting food into energy and for overall metabolic health. Some studies even suggest that malted milk drinks may help improve sleep quality, which could be linked to their B vitamin content.
Calcium and Magnesium: Essential for strong bones and muscle function, the combination of calcium and magnesium in Ovomaltine supports skeletal health and nerve function. This is especially important for growing children and aging adults concerned about bone density.
Copper and Iron: These minerals play a role in energy production and blood health. Iron, in particular, is critical for hemoglobin production and preventing iron-deficiency anemia.

The Unhealthy Side of Ovomaltine

Despite its vitamin and mineral content, Ovomaltine's nutritional profile is not without its significant downsides. The primary concern among health experts is its high concentration of added sugars. This is especially true for versions sold in non-Swiss markets, which often have a different formulation.

High Sugar Content

One of the biggest red flags for is Ovomaltine considered healthy is the added sugar. A single serving can contain a notable amount of added sugar, coming from sources like sugar, fructose, and molasses. Excessive sugar intake is a major contributor to various chronic diseases and health issues.

Weight Gain and Obesity: High-calorie, sugar-dense foods can lead to weight gain, which is a risk factor for a host of other health problems.
Type 2 Diabetes: Regular consumption of sugary drinks can increase the risk of developing type 2 diabetes.
Heart Health: Diets high in added sugars have been linked to an increased risk of heart disease.
Dental Health: Sugary beverages are a known cause of tooth decay.

Other Concerns

Beyond the sugar, other ingredients raise questions. Some formulations use caramel color, an additive that has been studied for possible health risks, though it is currently considered safe by the FDA. Also, it's worth noting that when mixed with water, the protein content is minimal. The nutritional boost largely depends on adding milk or a protein-rich plant-based alternative.

Ovomaltine vs. Other Chocolate Drinks

To put Ovomaltine's nutritional profile in context, it's helpful to compare it to other popular chocolate drink mixes. While some brands may also contain added sugars, the fortification in Ovomaltine might give it a slight edge in terms of micronutrients.


Feature	Ovomaltine	Competitor Chocolate Mixes	Homemade Cacao Drink (Cacao + Milk + Sweetener)
Vitamins & Minerals	Heavily fortified with A, D, B vitamins, calcium, iron, copper, etc.	Can be fortified, but often to a lesser extent; varies by brand.	Depends on milk choice; less fortified unless powdered vitamins are added.
Added Sugar	High content; varies by region (Swiss vs. US).	Varies widely; many popular mixes are high in sugar.	Complete control over the type and amount of sweetener.
Processing	Considered a moderately ultra-processed food by some sources.	Typically moderately to highly processed.	Minimal processing, depending on ingredients used.
Ingredient Control	Limited control over ingredients and additives.	Limited control over ingredients.	Full control over every single ingredient.
Nutritional Profile	Offers significant micronutrients alongside high sugar.	Can be primarily sugar with some added vitamins.	Potential for a healthier profile with low-sugar, high-protein milk alternatives.

How to Enjoy Ovomaltine Mindfully

For those who enjoy the taste of Ovomaltine, moderate consumption is key. It's best viewed as an occasional treat rather than a daily staple, particularly due to its high sugar content. Here are some tips for enjoying it more healthily:

Combine with Nutritious Ingredients: Mix Ovomaltine with a higher-protein liquid like soy milk or low-fat dairy to boost the protein content. You could also blend it into a smoothie with fruit for added fiber and nutrients.
Watch the Portion Size: Stick to the recommended serving size to control your intake of calories and added sugars. Consider using less than the suggested amount of powder.
Balance with a Healthy Diet: Treat Ovomaltine as a complement to a balanced diet, not a replacement. Ensure your overall intake of nutrients comes from a wide variety of whole foods.
Choose Wisely: If you have access to different formulations, look for the original Swiss Ovomaltine, which traditionally contains less added sugar than versions sold in other markets.

Conclusion: So is Ovomaltine Considered Healthy?

In summary, whether Ovomaltine is considered healthy depends on your perspective and how you consume it. It's a double-edged sword: offering a notable boost of vitamins and minerals, while also delivering a significant dose of added sugar. For those who are temporarily unable to eat a balanced diet or for picky eaters, it can provide a useful nutritional supplement. However, the high sugar content makes it unsuitable for frequent consumption, especially for individuals watching their sugar intake due to conditions like diabetes or concerns about weight. Ultimately, a balanced, whole-food diet is the most reliable way to obtain nutrients, and Ovomaltine is best enjoyed as an occasional treat in moderation.

What's Next? Finding Healthier Chocolate Alternatives

If Ovomaltine’s sugar content is a concern, but you still crave a warm, chocolatey drink, there are healthier alternatives. Creating a homemade mix from raw cacao powder, a natural sweetener like stevia, and a low-fat milk can provide the flavor with less processed ingredients and no added sugar.

Frequently Asked Questions

Some research on malted milk drinks suggests they may help improve sleep quality due to their magnesium content. Magnesium has been associated with regulating energy and reducing insomnia symptoms.

Ovomaltine is the original Swiss name for the product, while Ovaltine was adopted for non-German speaking markets, including the US. The formulas can differ, with the US version typically containing more added sugar.

While it can be a source of vitamins and minerals, its high sugar content means it should be given to children in moderation. A balanced diet from whole foods is always preferable.

Yes, Ovomaltine can be mixed with plant-based milk like almond or soy milk to increase its nutritional value and protein content, especially for those avoiding dairy.

Yes, the nutritional profile can vary significantly between different Ovomaltine products, such as the powder mix, chocolate bars, and crunchy spreads. Always check the specific product's nutrition label.

No, Ovomaltine contains barley malt extract, which means it is not gluten-free. Individuals with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity should avoid it.

Ovomaltine typically contains barley malt extract, milk, cocoa, sugar, and is fortified with various vitamins and minerals.