What Ingredients Are in Aldi Protein Pudding?

November 29, 2025 •

2 min read

According to nutrition data, Aldi's protein puddings, often sold under the Brooklea brand, are primarily made from a dairy base and milk protein. This article explores in detail what ingredients are in Aldi protein pudding across different flavors and discusses their role in the dessert's texture and nutritional profile.

Quick Summary

Aldi's protein pudding contains a base of skimmed milk and milk protein, supplemented with modified starches, thickeners, artificial sweeteners, and flavorings for taste and texture. Key additives include carrageenan, sucralose, and Acesulfame K, with specific flavor variations involving cocoa or fruit concentrates.

Key Points

Core Ingredients: The base of Aldi's protein pudding includes skimmed milk, milk protein, and cream for a high-protein, creamy consistency.
Artificial Sweeteners: To keep the sugar content low, the pudding is sweetened with artificial sweeteners, namely Acesulfame K and Sucralose.
Texture Additives: Thickeners such as modified maize starch, carrageenan, and sodium carboxy methyl cellulose are used to create the pudding's desired thick texture.
Flavor Variations: Specific flavorings and ingredients, like cocoa powder for chocolate or fruit concentrates for strawberry, are added to differentiate the varieties.
Lactose-Free Option: Many versions contain lactase, an enzyme that breaks down lactose, making them suitable for those with lactose sensitivity.
Ultra-Processed Food: Due to the list of sweeteners, thickeners, and flavourings, these puddings are often classified as ultra-processed foods.

Aldi Protein Pudding: The Core Ingredients

Aldi's protein pudding is a popular high-protein, low-sugar snack choice. While formulations may vary by flavor and region, core ingredients are consistently used. These include skimmed milk as the base, concentrated milk protein for the high protein content, and cream for a smooth texture.

Flavor-Specific Ingredients

Each flavor incorporates unique ingredients:

Chocolate: Uses cocoa powder and fat-reduced cocoa powder. Some versions include sodium phosphates for texture.
Caramel: Features flavorings and colors like sulphite ammonia caramel (E150c) and carotenes. Mousse types may contain beef gelatine and guar gum.
Vanilla: Includes flavorings and plant extracts like safflower for color.
Strawberry: Contains dried strawberries, flavorings, and colors like carotenes.

Additives and Sweeteners

Additives are crucial for texture and sweetness without high sugar content.

Sweeteners: Acesulfame K and Sucralose provide calorie-free sweetness.
Thickeners: Modified maize starch, carrageenan, and sodium carboxy methyl cellulose create the thick consistency.
Lactase: Added to break down lactose, making it easier to digest for sensitive individuals.

Comparison of Aldi Protein Pudding Ingredients by Flavor

Ingredient variations by flavor are highlighted below. Always check product labels as formulations can differ regionally.


Ingredient Category	Chocolate Flavor	Caramel Flavor	Vanilla Flavor
Dairy Base	Skimmed Milk, Milk Protein, Cream	Skimmed Milk, Milk Protein, Whipping Cream	Skimmed Milk, Milk Protein, Whipping Cream
Flavoring Agent	Cocoa Powder, Fat-Reduced Cocoa Powder	Caramel Flavouring, Salt, Colours (E150c, E160a)	Flavouring, Plant Extract (Safflower)
Thickeners	Carrageenan, Modified Starch, Sodium Phosphates	Carrageenan, Guar Gum, Modified Starch	Carrageenan, Modified Maize Starch, Sodium Carboxy Methyl Cellulose
Sweeteners	Acesulfame K, Sucralose	Acesulfame K, Sucralose	Acesulfame K, Sucralose
Lactose Content	Lactase Added (often labelled 'lactose-free')	Lactase Added (often labelled 'lactose-free')	Lactase Added (often labelled 'lactose-free')

Understanding the Role of Different Additives

Additives significantly impact the pudding's characteristics. Modified starches and carrageenan contribute to texture and structure, while artificial sweeteners provide sweetness without sugar. These additives are generally considered safe, but some consumers prefer to limit their intake of such processed ingredients.

For information on European food additive regulations, consult resources like the European Food Safety Authority. [https://www.efsa.europa.eu/en]

Conclusion

Aldi protein puddings are primarily composed of dairy, including skimmed milk and milk protein. Flavor, texture, and a low-sugar profile are achieved through various additives, such as cocoa powder, caramel and fruit flavorings, artificial sweeteners like Acesulfame K and Sucralose, and thickeners like modified starch and carrageenan. While offering a good protein source, consumers should review the ingredient list for dietary considerations or sensitivities.

Frequently Asked Questions

No, Aldi protein puddings typically do not contain added sugar. They are sweetened with artificial, calorie-free sweeteners such as Acesulfame K and Sucralose to provide sweetness without the calories from sugar.

Many Aldi protein puddings contain the enzyme lactase, which breaks down lactose. This makes them suitable for individuals with lactose sensitivity, though they still contain milk-based ingredients.

The primary protein source is concentrated milk protein, which is listed high on the ingredient list alongside skimmed milk.

The thick texture comes from a combination of ingredients, including modified starches, whipping cream, and thickeners like carrageenan and sodium carboxy methyl cellulose.

Yes, different flavors have unique ingredients. For instance, the chocolate flavor uses cocoa powder, while the caramel uses caramel colorings and flavorings.

No, Aldi protein puddings are not suitable for vegans as their primary ingredients are derived from milk, including skimmed milk and milk protein.

No, given its list of additives, thickeners, and sweeteners, Aldi protein pudding is considered an ultra-processed food.