Core Ingredients of Original Horlicks
At its heart, the classic Horlicks formula has always relied on a blend of wholesome ingredients. The original concept was to create an easily digestible, complete meal in a powdered form. This foundation remains central to its modern formulation, although specific ratios and additional ingredients vary slightly depending on the country of manufacture.
Malted Barley and Wheat
The distinctive malty flavor of Horlicks comes from its star ingredients: malted barley and wheat. The malting process involves steeping grains in water, allowing them to germinate, and then drying them. This natural process converts starches into simpler sugars, giving the drink its characteristic taste and sweetness. In the UK, the formulation contains a high proportion of wheat flour, malted wheat, and malted barley, providing complex carbohydrates and fiber.
Milk Solids
Traditional Horlicks relies on dried whey and dried skimmed milk to provide its creamy texture and add significant nutritional value. These milk solids are a source of protein and calcium, supporting bone health and muscle growth. A crucial point of distinction is the newer vegan formulation, which omits these dairy-based ingredients entirely, using plant-based alternatives to achieve a similar creamy texture.
Added Vitamins and Minerals
To enhance its nutritional profile, Horlicks is fortified with a wide array of vitamins and minerals. The specific list can vary between regions and product types, but common additions include:
- Vitamins: A, C, D, E, and a range of B vitamins (B1, B2, B6, B9, B12).
- Minerals: Calcium, Iron, Zinc, and Selenium. These added nutrients support various bodily functions, from boosting immunity to aiding brain development, particularly in children.
Other Constituents
Rounding out the recipe are additional ingredients to ensure consistency, flavor, and shelf-stability. These include sugar for taste, salt, anti-caking agents, and, in some versions, palm oil or maltodextrin. It is important to note that the Indian formulation differs, for example, by containing soy protein isolate instead of palm oil.
Variations in Horlicks Formulations
Horlicks has adapted its recipe over time to meet the demands of different markets and dietary requirements. This has resulted in several distinct product lines, each with a unique ingredient profile.
Horlicks Original vs. Indian Formulations
- UK Original: Focuses on malted barley, wheat, and dairy. Contains palm oil and has a specific vitamin and mineral mix.
- Indian Classic Malt: Includes millet and soy protein isolate, but omits palm oil. It is fortified with 27 nutrients tailored for children's growth in that market, with specific clinical backing for its efficacy.
The Rise of Vegan Horlicks
In response to growing demand, Horlicks introduced a vegan version in 2021. This formula maintains the signature malty flavor but replaces dairy products with a plant-based alternative. It is still fortified with essential nutrients, including B12, vitamin D, and calcium, making it suitable for those on dairy-free or vegan diets. The vegan variant can be enjoyed with any non-dairy milk and is registered with the Vegan Trademark.
Other Flavors and Products
Beyond the classic malt, Horlicks offers a variety of flavors and products designed for specific audiences. These may have slight variations in their base ingredients to accommodate the added flavorings and functional ingredients. For example, some children's versions come in chocolate or other flavors to appeal to younger palates.
A Comparison of Traditional and Vegan Horlicks
| Feature | Traditional Horlicks | Vegan Horlicks |
|---|---|---|
| Primary Ingredients | Malted barley, wheat, dried whey, dried skimmed milk, sugar, vitamins, and minerals. | Malted barley, wheat, vegan alternatives for creaminess, sugar, vitamins, and minerals. |
| Dairy Content | Contains dried whey and skimmed milk. | Dairy-free formulation. |
| Nutritional Profile | Fortified with 14+ key nutrients, including B vitamins, calcium, and iron. | Also fortified with key vitamins (C, D, B12) and minerals (calcium, zinc), catering to vegan nutritional needs. |
| Flavor Profile | Creamy, classic malt flavor with a milk-based richness. | Deliciously creamy malty taste designed to be paired with non-dairy milk. |
| Target Audience | General consumers, particularly children and those seeking a comforting bedtime drink. | Vegans, those with dairy allergies, and consumers seeking plant-based options. |
The Health Benefits of Horlicks' Ingredients
The combination of ingredients in Horlicks provides several health benefits, which is why it has been marketed as a nourishing drink for over a century.
Supports Growth and Development
For children, the blend of protein, calcium, and vitamin D supports healthy bone growth and muscle development. The addition of iron and iodine can also aid in cognitive function, improving concentration and attention.
Aids Digestion
Some formulations contain prebiotics, which help foster the growth of beneficial gut bacteria, thereby supporting better digestion and nutrient absorption. The malted barley itself is a source of fiber, though specific amounts can vary.
Enhances Sleep Quality
Horlicks has a long-standing reputation as a soothing bedtime drink, and the science supports this. It contains tryptophan, an amino acid found in milk, which aids in producing serotonin and melatonin—the hormones that regulate sleep. The carbohydrates present help the body absorb tryptophan more effectively.
Provides Energy
The malted cereals in Horlicks are a source of carbohydrates, which provide a steady release of energy. This makes it a popular choice as a breakfast drink or a mid-day pick-me-up, especially for active individuals.
Conclusion
Horlicks' composition, rooted in malted barley, wheat, and milk solids, is a testament to its long-standing appeal as a nourishing and comforting beverage. While its fundamental ingredients have endured, the brand has demonstrated its ability to evolve by introducing variations like the vegan-certified version to meet contemporary dietary needs. By understanding what is Horlick made of, consumers can better appreciate its nutritional value and make an informed choice based on their health goals and preferences.
What is Horlick made of? FAQs
Q: What is the main ingredient in Horlicks? A: The main ingredients in Horlicks are a combination of malted barley, wheat flour, and milk solids.
Q: Is there a dairy-free or vegan version of Horlicks? A: Yes, Horlicks offers a vegan version that is dairy-free and suitable for vegans and those with milk allergies. It maintains the classic malty flavor by using plant-based ingredients.
Q: Does Horlicks contain caffeine? A: No, traditional Horlicks does not contain caffeine. It is often consumed as a bedtime drink for its relaxing properties.
Q: How do the ingredients in Horlicks help with sleep? A: Horlicks contains tryptophan, an amino acid that helps the body produce sleep-regulating hormones like serotonin and melatonin. The carbohydrates in the drink also assist in the absorption of tryptophan.
Q: Are the ingredients the same in Horlicks products worldwide? A: No, the ingredient list can vary by country. For example, the Indian formulation may include millet and soy protein isolate, while the UK version includes dried whey and palm oil.
Q: Is Horlicks suitable for children? A: Yes, Horlicks offers specific formulations, such as Junior Horlicks, which are designed with added nutrients to support the growth and development of children.
Q: Are there any artificial additives in Horlicks? A: According to the product information for some variants, Horlicks is made with no artificial coloring, flavors, or sweeteners. However, ingredient lists can change, so it is always best to check the specific product packaging.
Q: Can you drink Horlicks with water? A: Yes, you can mix Horlicks with water, though it is typically prepared with hot milk for a creamier texture. The vegan version is specifically designed to be mixed with a non-dairy milk of choice.
Q: Are Horlicks tablets made from the same ingredients? A: While sharing the signature malty flavor, Horlicks tablets differ in composition. They contain malted wheat and barley, dextrose, and vegetable fat, specifically palm oil, alongside other binders and agents.
Q: Does Horlicks help with muscle growth? A: Yes, Horlicks contains protein and other micronutrients, which support muscle growth and overall physical strength.
Q: How does Horlicks support immunity? A: Horlicks is often fortified with a range of vitamins (A, C, D, E) and minerals like zinc, which are known to support a healthy immune system.
Q: Does Horlicks contain sugar? A: Yes, sugar is one of the ingredients in most Horlicks formulations. However, the overall nutritional profile includes other beneficial components.
