Core Ingredients of Horlicks Vegan
Horlicks Vegan relies on a carefully selected blend of plant-based ingredients to replicate the creamy, malty flavor of the original without any dairy. The primary components are grains, specifically malted barley and wheat flour, which provide the base for the drink's signature taste. Malted millet is also included to enhance the flavor profile. The recipe is a thoughtful combination of natural ingredients and fortified nutrients to ensure it remains a nourishing beverage option.
Primary Grain Base
- Malted Barley (75%): This is the main ingredient and the source of the classic, distinctive malty flavor that Horlicks is known for. The malting process involves steeping grains in water, which allows them to germinate. This releases starches and sugars that contribute to the malty taste.
- Wheat Flour (6%): A standard thickening agent that works with the other ingredients to provide the smooth, creamy texture of the final drink when mixed with a plant-based milk.
- Malted Millet (5%): A less common grain in malted drinks, millet adds a unique depth and nutty complexity to the overall malt flavor.
Vitamin and Mineral Fortification
Horlicks Vegan is fortified with a range of vitamins and minerals to replace those traditionally found in dairy milk, ensuring it remains a nutritionally sound drink.
- Vitamin Mix: This blend includes Vitamins C, Niacin (B3), E, Pantothenic Acid (B5), B6, Riboflavin (B2), Thiamine (B1), Folic Acid, Biotin, D, and B12.
- Calcium Carbonate: As a replacement for dairy's natural calcium, this mineral is added to support strong bones.
- Ferric Pyrophosphate: This compound is a source of iron, an essential mineral for red blood cell production.
- Zinc Oxide: An additional mineral supplement, zinc is important for immune function and overall health.
Additives and Stabilizers
To achieve the desired consistency and shelf stability, the vegan formula uses several additives that are plant-based.
- Sunflower Lecithin (Emulsifier): This ingredient helps the powder mix smoothly with liquid, preventing clumping and ensuring a creamy texture. It replaces the dairy-derived emulsifiers found in the original version.
- Guar Gum (Stabiliser): Derived from guar beans, this additive helps to thicken the liquid and keep the ingredients evenly suspended.
- Potassium Carbonate: Used as an acidity regulator to balance the flavor.
- Anti-Caking Agent (Silicon Dioxide): This prevents the powder from caking together in the jar, ensuring a smooth, consistent product.
How Horlicks Vegan Compares to the Original
There are key differences in the ingredient lists of Horlicks Vegan and the classic Original Horlicks, primarily due to the removal of all dairy products.
| Feature | Horlicks Vegan | Original Horlicks | Key Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Dairy Content | None (Dairy-free) | Contains Dried Whey and Dried Skimmed Milk | The core distinction; vegan version is completely plant-based. |
| Emulsifier | Sunflower Lecithin | Sunflower Lecithin | Both versions use sunflower lecithin, though other formulations of the original may differ. |
| Stabilizer | Guar Gum | Palm Oil | The vegan version relies on guar gum for thickness, while the original uses palm oil. |
| Grain Composition | Malted Barley (75%), Wheat Flour (6%), Malted Millet (5%) | Malted Barley (58%), Wheat Flour (24%), Malted Millet (unspecified) | A different ratio and concentration of grains, particularly a higher percentage of malted barley in the vegan product. |
| Nutrient Fortification | Vitamins and minerals including Calcium Carbonate and Zinc Oxide | Vitamins and minerals including Calcium Carbonate and Zinc Oxide | Similar vitamin and mineral profiles, but derived from different sources to ensure a vegan product. |
Creating the Perfect Vegan Horlicks
Preparing a mug of Horlicks Vegan is simple and versatile, allowing for both hot and cold preparations. The key is pairing it with your favorite plant-based milk alternative.
- Hot Preparation: Mix 3 heaped teaspoons (25g) of Horlicks Vegan into a mug. Add a small amount of hot water to create a smooth paste, then top up with 200ml of hot, non-dairy milk and stir well.
- Cold Preparation: For a milkshake, place 3-4 teaspoons (25g) of the powder and 200ml of cold non-dairy milk into a blender or shaker. Mix until dissolved and serve in a tall glass.
Best Milk Alternatives for Horlicks Vegan:
- Oat Milk: Provides a creamy, neutral base that complements the malty flavor perfectly.
- Almond Milk: Offers a slightly nutty flavor and lighter texture.
- Soy Milk: Delivers a high-protein, creamy consistency that works well with the malty taste.
Nutritional Breakdown and Flavor Profile
By using malted grains as its foundation and fortifying the mix with a comprehensive vitamin blend, Horlicks Vegan ensures a nourishing profile. The removal of dairy does not compromise the flavor, and the use of natural stabilisers and emulsifiers ensures a creamy texture. For many vegans and those with dairy allergies, this product provides a reassuringly familiar, comforting beverage option.
Ingredient Sourcing and Quality
Horlicks has been produced in Britain for over a century, using locally farmed wheat and barley for its products. This commitment to quality and heritage has been carried over to the vegan formulation. The company has also removed all artificial colors, flavors, sweeteners, and preservatives from its vegan recipe, appealing to consumers seeking a cleaner ingredient list. This move is part of a broader trend towards catering to different diets and evolving consumer tastes.
Conclusion
Horlicks Vegan successfully delivers the nostalgic, creamy, and malty flavor of the original without relying on any dairy products. Its ingredients consist of a blend of malted grains, fortified vitamins, and plant-based stabilizers, which allow it to maintain a nutritionally robust profile. By opting for sunflower lecithin and guar gum, the brand ensures a smooth and satisfying experience when prepared with a non-dairy milk alternative. This makes it a popular choice for vegans, those with lactose intolerance, and anyone seeking a delicious, dairy-free malted drink.
Authoritative Link: For more information on the Vegan Trademark, visit The Vegan Society's website.
