Milo vs. Ovaltine: A comparison of two popular chocolate malt beverages
Chocolate malt beverages are loved by people of all ages around the world, and two of the most popular options in this category are Milo and Ovaltine. While these powdered malted beverages may seem similar, there are distinct differences between them. In this article, we will explore these differences in terms of their fat content, nutrient concentration, taste, varieties, ingredients, and nutritional information. So let’s delve into the world of Milo and Ovaltine and find out what makes them different.
What is Milo?
Milo is a chocolate-flavored powdered drink produced by Nestlé, a well-known Swiss company. It has gained widespread popularity in countries such as Australia, Malaysia, New Zealand, Thailand and South Africa. Milo’s main ingredients are malt and sugar, and it can be prepared by mixing the powder with hot or cold milk, water, or a combination of the two.
Originally developed in Australia by industrial chemist Thomas Wayne, Milo has spread to almost every corner of the world. It is often marketed to children and active people, as evidenced by the packaging, which features images of young children engaged in sporting activities.
Milo is primarily available as a powder mix, but is also available in pre-mixed or ready-to-drink forms in certain countries. It is also offered as a snack bar and cereal, giving consumers multiple ways to enjoy this chocolate malt beverage.
Ingredients, Nutrition & Consumption
Milo is made from barley malt extract, milk solids, sugar, cocoa powder, vegetable oil, calcium phosphate, sodium phosphate, magnesium and a range of vitamins. It is marketed primarily to active children for its nutritional benefits and delicious chocolate taste.
Although Milo is not actively marketed in the United States, it is readily available in the import sections of leading supermarkets and online retailers. Milo is prepared by mixing it with hot or cold milk or water. Some people even sprinkle it on ice cream, cereal or desserts to enhance the flavor. In Southeast Asian countries, Milo can also be found in popular fast food chains such as KFC and McDonald’s.
What is Ovaltine?
Ovaltine is another powdered malt beverage similar to Milo. It is produced by different manufacturers in different countries, with Associated British Foods producing it in the UK and Nestlé owning the brand in the United States.
Introduced in the early 20th century, Ovaltine’s rich and delicious taste has made it a favorite with children and adults around the world. The powdered malt beverage comes in a distinctive orange pack and can be mixed with hot or cold milk, water or a combination of the two.
The original Ovaltine formula was malt, cocoa, eggs and milk. However, the product has evolved over the years to include varieties such as Ovaltine Classic Malt, Chocolate Malt Mix and Rich Chocolate Mix. Some countries even offer an egg-free version of Ovaltine.
Ovaltine is not limited to beverage form; it is also available as a cookie sandwich and a spread called Ovomaltine Crunchy Cream, which combines the malty beverage with cocoa. Interestingly, Ovomaltine and Ovomaltine are essentially the same product, but the name discrepancy arose when Ovomaltine was accidentally shortened to Ovaltine when it was introduced in Great Britain. The original name is still used in Switzerland and Belgium.
Ingredients, Nutrition & Consumption
Ovaltine is packed with essential vitamins and minerals, making it a popular choice for people looking for a healthy beverage option. Its nutritional value depends largely on what it is mixed with, and the US version of Ovaltine contains no fat, making it an attractive choice for those looking to reduce their fat intake.
The drink contains vitamin B complex, which helps control appetite, improve mood and enhance muscle metabolism. It also provides calcium and vitamin D, which contribute to bone strength. Ovaltine can be enjoyed hot or cold, depending on personal preference, and is particularly enjoyable as a hot chocolate drink in the colder months.
Differences between Milo and Ovaltine
While both Milo and Ovaltine are popular malted beverages enjoyed around the world, there are notable differences between them, especially when considering that Milo is produced in Australia and Ovaltine is produced for the U.S. market.
The main difference is in fat content and nutrient concentration. Ovaltine sold in the U.S. is fat-free, while Milo contains fats. In addition, Ovaltine offers a more concentrated nutrient profile compared to Milo. Milo is relatively lower in sugars and carbohydrates, while Ovaltine is higher in vitamins and minerals.
Another difference is the launch schedule, with Ovaltine being introduced before Milo. In addition, Milo is more popular in Australia and Southeast Asian countries, while Ovaltine is better known in the UK and US.
When it comes to taste, both Milo and Ovaltine offer a delicious chocolate taste. However, some people may perceive differences in the intensity and richness of the chocolate taste between the two beverages. Personal preference plays an important role in determining which taste is preferred.
In terms of varieties, Milo and Ovaltine serve different markets and consumer preferences. Milo is primarily available as a powdered mix, with pre-mixed and ready-to-drink options in some countries. It is also available in snack bar and cereal forms. Ovaltine, on the other hand, offers several varieties, including Classic Malt, Chocolate Malt Mix and Rich Chocolate Mix. The availability of an egg-free variant in selected countries further expands the choice for Ovaltine consumers.
The ingredients used in Milo and Ovaltine are also slightly different. Milo contains barley malt extract, milk solids, sugar, cocoa powder, vegetable oil, calcium phosphate, sodium phosphate, magnesium and several vitamins. Ovaltine, on the other hand, typically consists of malt, cocoa, eggs, and milk. The specific ingredients and their proportions may vary between different varieties and regions.
In terms of nutritional information, both Milo and Ovaltine offer certain health benefits. Milo is marketed to active children and contains essential vitamins and minerals to support growth and development. Ovaltine, on the other hand, is often promoted as a healthy drink for people of all ages, with its low calorie and fat content appealing to those concerned about their dietary intake. The inclusion of vitamin B complex, calcium and vitamin D in Ovaltine further enhances its nutritional profile.
In summary, Milo and Ovaltine are two popular chocolate malt beverages with unique characteristics. While Milo contains fat and is more popular in Australia and Southeast Asian countries, Ovaltine is fat-free and is recognized in the UK and the US. Both beverages offer a delicious chocolate taste and nutritional benefits, albeit with different nutrient concentrations and sugar content. The availability of different varieties and shapes adds to the appeal of these beverages. Ultimately, personal preference and dietary considerations will guide the choice between Milo and Ovaltine.
FAQS
What are the main differences between Milo and Ovaltine?
The main differences are in fat content and nutrient concentration. Ovaltine sold in the U.S. is fat-free, while Milo contains fats. Ovaltine also offers a more concentrated nutrient profile than Milo.
In which countries are Milo and Ovaltine popular?
Milo is particularly popular in countries such as Australia, Malaysia, New Zealand, Thailand and South Africa. Ovaltine, on the other hand, has gained recognition in the UK, USA and other parts of the world.
Can I find Milo and Ovaltine in other forms?
Yes, Milo is primarily available as a powdered mix, but in some countries it is also available in a pre-mixed or ready-to-drink form. It is also available as a snack bar and cereal. Ovaltine is available in several varieties, including Classic Malt, Chocolate Malt Mix and Rich Chocolate Mix. In some countries, an egg-free version of Ovaltine is also available.
Are Milo and Ovaltine suitable for children?
Yes, both Milo and Ovaltine are suitable for children. Milo is often marketed to active children, while Ovaltine is promoted as a healthy drink for people of all ages.
Are there any specific health benefits associated with Milo and Ovaltine?
Milo contains essential vitamins and minerals that support growth and development, making it beneficial for active children. Ovaltine, on the other hand, is often considered a healthier choice due to its low calorie and fat content. It also provides vitamin B complex, calcium and vitamin D, contributing to overall health and well-being.
Can I use Milo and Ovaltine in different recipes?
Yes, Milo and Ovaltine can be used in a variety of recipes to add a delicious chocolate malt flavor. They can be added to baked goods, desserts and even sprinkled on top of ice cream or cereal to enhance the flavor.