Core Ingredients of Ambrosia Custard
Ambrosia Devon Custard is a ready-to-eat product, and its ingredients reflect this convenience. While traditional homemade custard relies on a simple mix of milk, eggs, and sugar, the commercial version includes additional components to ensure a longer shelf life and consistent texture. A typical can or pot of Ambrosia Devon Custard contains the following:
- Skimmed Milk and Buttermilk: The creamy base of the custard, sourced from the West Country in the UK.
- Sugar: A primary ingredient for sweetness.
- Modified Starch: Used as a thickening agent to achieve the custard's characteristic smooth and consistent texture, preventing it from separating.
- Sustainable Palm Oil: Adds to the creamy mouthfeel and contributes to the fat content.
- Whey (Milk): A byproduct of cheesemaking, added for flavour and protein.
- Natural Flavouring: Provides the classic custard taste.
- Colours (Curcumin, Annatto Norbixin): Added to give the custard its familiar yellow colour.
These ingredients are carefully balanced to create the product's signature taste and texture, with Premier Foods owning the Ambrosia brand.
Nutritional Profile and Dietary Considerations
While Ambrosia custard is a treat, understanding its nutritional profile is key for a balanced diet. A standard 100g serving contains approximately 96 kcal, with around 2.9g of fat (1.5g saturated), and 14.8g of carbohydrates, of which 10.6g are sugars. It's a source of calcium due to its high milk content.
For those watching their intake, the sugar and saturated fat content are important to note. Palm oil, a key component, contains saturated fats. The sugar content, while moderate for a dessert, contributes to the daily recommended intake and should be consumed in moderation, especially for individuals with diabetes or those monitoring sugar levels.
Variations of Ambrosia Custard
Ambrosia offers several product variations to cater to different dietary needs and preferences. These include lower-fat options and fortified mini-pots.
Standard vs. Light Custard
| Feature | Standard Devon Custard | Light Devon Custard |
|---|---|---|
| Fat Content | Approx. 2.9g per 100g | Less than 3% fat |
| Saturated Fat | Approx. 1.5g per 100g | Approx. 1.0g per 100g |
| Sugar Content | Approx. 10.6g per 100g | Approx. 7.4g per 100g |
| Calories | Approx. 96 kcal per 100g | Approx. 78 kcal per 100g |
| Key Benefit | Richer, creamier taste | Lower calorie, fat, and sugar content |
Ambrosia Mini Custards
Designed for children, these mini pots are fortified with added vitamins and minerals to support growth.
- Fortification: Includes Vitamin D and additional Calcium for strong bones.
- Nutritional Focus: Offers a balanced snack with added nutritional benefits, though sugar content should still be considered.
Homemade vs. Store-Bought Custard
For those seeking greater control over their diet, making custard from scratch offers a healthier alternative. A homemade version typically uses whole milk, egg yolks, a smaller amount of sugar, and a natural vanilla pod or extract. This eliminates modified starches and palm oil, and allows you to control the sugar and fat content directly. While homemade custard requires more time and effort, it offers a fresher, more natural product.
Homemade Custard Ingredients
- Whole milk
- Egg yolks
- Caster sugar
- Cornflour (optional, for thickening)
- Vanilla extract or pod
Navigating the 'Nutrition Diet' Landscape with Custard
Incorporating products like Ambrosia custard into a nutritious diet is about balance and awareness. Here are some tips:
- Portion Control: The small, ready-to-eat pots or serving from a can can be an easy way to manage portion size.
- Pairing: Serve with fresh fruit or a sprinkle of cinnamon instead of sugar-laden accompaniments to boost nutritional value.
- Choose Variations Wisely: Opt for the 'Light' versions to reduce sugar and fat intake without sacrificing flavour.
- Treats, Not Staples: View Ambrosia custard as an occasional treat rather than a daily staple, especially if you are concerned about sugar and saturated fat intake.
Conclusion
Understanding what are the ingredients in ambrosia custard is vital for informed dietary choices. Comprised of milk products, sugar, modified starch, and palm oil, the ready-made dessert offers a convenient treat with flavour and consistency. However, for those on a stricter nutrition diet, homemade custard provides a fresher, more controllable option. By considering portion sizes, choosing lighter varieties, and viewing it as an occasional indulgence, you can still enjoy this classic dessert while maintaining a balanced diet. For more information on their product range, you can visit the official Ambrosia website.
