Core Ingredients of Bournvita
The ingredient list for Bournvita reveals a mix of fundamental food components and food additives that work together to create its distinctive chocolatey flavor and nutritional profile. The primary ingredients, listed by prominence, are cereal extracts, sugar, and cocoa solids.
Cereal Extract (Malt and Wheat)
The bulk of Bournvita is derived from cereal extracts, predominantly from barley and wheat. Malt extract, which accounts for a large portion of the powder, is created by soaking grains like barley in water to allow them to germinate. This process releases enzymes that break down the starches into fermentable sugars, which are then concentrated to form the extract. Cereal extracts serve as a primary source of carbohydrates and give Bournvita its malty undertone.
Sugar
Sugar is a significant component of Bournvita, playing a key role in its taste and energy content. The company has addressed concerns about sugar content, stating that a typical serving contains a permissible amount. Different variants or regional formulations may have slightly different sugar levels. For example, some products list both sugar and liquid glucose as ingredients.
Cocoa Solids
Bournvita's chocolatey taste and aroma come from the inclusion of cocoa solids. Cocoa solids also contribute a small amount of caffeine. The amount of cocoa solids varies, with some international versions having a slightly higher concentration than others.
Milk Solids
To be mixed with milk, Bournvita contains milk solids, which provide additional protein and calcium. This makes it unsuitable for those with dairy allergies or lactose intolerance.
Nutritional Fortification and Additives
Beyond the core ingredients, Bournvita is fortified with a range of vitamins and minerals. It also uses several additives to enhance its stability, appearance, and taste.
Vitamins and Minerals
Bournvita is enriched with a "bundle of nutrients" to support various aspects of health. These include:
- Physical Strength: Calcium, Vitamin D, and Magnesium.
- Mental Strength: Iron, Iodine, and Zinc for cognitive functions.
- Immune System Strength: Vitamins C, D, Zinc, and Iron.
Additives
- Emulsifiers: Substances like Lecithin (E322) and Mono- and diglycerides of fatty acids (E471) are used to help blend the oil and water-based ingredients, ensuring a smooth, consistent texture when mixed.
- Caramel Colour: The product often contains a caramel colorant (like 150c) to achieve its rich brown appearance.
- Raising Agent: Sodium carbonate (E500) may be included, which can act as a leavening agent or acidity regulator.
- Flavoring Substances: Natural and artificial flavorings, such as ethyl vanillin, are added to create the characteristic vanilla and chocolate notes.
Comparison: Bournvita vs. Competitors
To understand Bournvita better, it is helpful to compare its formulation with other popular malted beverage mixes like Horlicks and Complan. While all three are marketed as nutritional drinks, their ingredient emphasis differs slightly.
| Ingredient Category | Bournvita | Horlicks | Complan |
|---|---|---|---|
| Core Base | Cereal extract (Barley, Wheat), Sugar, Cocoa Solids, Milk Solids | Malted barley, wheat flour, milk solids, sugar | Skimmed milk, lactose, vegetable oil, sugar |
| Energy Source | Malt extract, liquid glucose | Malted barley, malted wheat | Maltodextrin, glucose syrup |
| Flavour | Cocoa solids, artificial vanilla flavouring | Natural color and flavouring | Cocoa powder, flavourings (for chocolate variants) |
| Protein Source | Milk solids, protein isolate | Milk solids, protein isolate | Skimmed milk, protein isolate |
| Key Additives | Emulsifiers (E322, E471), Raising agent (E500) | Emulsifier, acidity regulator | Thickeners (xanthan gum) |
Bournvita: The Manufacturing Process
Creating the powdered drink mix involves a multi-step industrial process. In a modern approach, the solid and liquid components are combined in a single vessel, known as a plough shear mixer. Bulk solids, including cocoa powder and milk powder, are mixed with liquids like malt extract and a heated sugar solution. The mixture is then subjected to heat under lowered pressure to dry and granulate the product. After granulation, the powder is cooled and discharged for further packaging. This process is designed for efficiency and ensures a consistent, high-quality end product.
The Controversy: Sugar Content vs. Health Claims
Despite being marketed as a health drink, Bournvita has faced scrutiny regarding its high sugar content. A viral video in 2023 highlighted the significant amount of sugar and the inclusion of a caramel coloring agent (150c), leading to public and regulatory debate.
The Health Drink Label
In response to public concerns and regulatory scrutiny from bodies like India's FSSAI, brand owner Mondelez was directed to remove the term "health drink" from product packaging and marketing materials. The industry was reminded that health claims must be substantiated and not misleading.
A Balanced View
While the added vitamins and minerals do contribute nutritional value, the presence of significant added sugar means the product should be consumed in moderation as part of a balanced diet. The fortification can supplement nutrient intake, but it is not a replacement for a diet rich in whole foods. Consumers are encouraged to make informed decisions by reading product labels carefully.
Conclusion
To understand what is Bournvita made of, one must look beyond its simple appearance as a chocolate powder. Its composition is a carefully balanced blend of cereal extracts, sugars, cocoa, milk solids, and a host of fortified vitamins and minerals. The manufacturing process is designed for consistency and quality, but the final product is a blend of both natural components and food additives. While marketed for its strength-enhancing properties, particularly for children, the product’s high sugar content has prompted recent re-evaluation by consumers and regulatory bodies regarding its true "health drink" status. Therefore, while it can provide a burst of energy and some micronutrients, it is best viewed as a flavored supplement to be enjoyed responsibly within a healthy lifestyle.
Learn more about food regulations in India by visiting the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) at its official website.
