What are the benefits of drinking malted milk?
Malted milk is mainly an enjoyable, malty drink that adds some calories, milk protein and, in fortified brands, added vitamins and minerals. It is not a medicine, and many modern mixes contain a lot of added sugar. Read the label of your brand to see what it actually provides.
Free download
Milk and Dairy Storage Chart (PDF): How long milk, plant milks, cream, yogurt and kefir last, opened and unopened. 23 rows, each with its source.
Thank you
Your chart is ready
We use your email only for this download.Also free:
Home Bar Storage Chart (PDF)Juice, Soda and Water Storage Chart (PDF)Coffee, Tea and Hot Drinks Storage Chart (PDF)Drink Strength, Calories and Units Cheat Sheet (PDF)Want the full pack? About 10 printable sheets: a larger chart for each drink type, a “has it gone off?” checklist, date labels, a party planner and an inventory sheet.
In this article
What is malted milk?
Malted milk powder combines wheat flour, malt flour and powdered milk. Early versions relied on the natural sweetness of malt, but most modern ones add a lot of sugar, and some add flavorings such as vanilla or chocolate and vitamins. Horlicks and Ovaltine are well-known examples, and recipes differ by country.
What can you actually get from it?
- Milk nutrients: When mixed with milk, you get the protein and calcium that milk provides.
- Added vitamins: Some forms are fortified. Whether yours is depends on the brand and country, so read the label.
- Extra calories: One reference notes that malted milk has been used to help children drink more milk when their calorie intake is low.
- A comforting, flavorful drink: Many people drink it warm or add it to milkshakes and baking, where it adds a malty flavor and slightly more protein.
What to be careful about
- Sugar: Most modern malted drinks contain plenty of added sugar. They are better treated as a treat than a health drink.
- Allergens: They normally contain milk and gluten-containing grains such as wheat or barley.
- Health claims: Strong claims about sleep, immunity or brain function mostly come from marketing. We did not find solid evidence for them, so do not rely on them.
- Special diets: Ask a doctor or dietitian if you manage diabetes or a restricted diet.
Compare before you buy
| Label item | What to check |
|---|---|
| Sugar | Check grams of sugar per serving |
| Fortification | Look for added vitamins and minerals in the list |
| Serving size | Check the label; it is often a few spoonfuls |
| Allergens | Milk, wheat, barley; sometimes soy or cocoa |
Simple ways to use it
Stir a spoonful into warm milk, blend it into a milkshake, or add some to pancake or biscuit batter for a malty flavor. Use it in moderation and count it toward your daily sugar.
People also ask
Is malted milk healthy?
It depends on the brand. It provides milk nutrients and sometimes added vitamins, but most modern ones contain a lot of sugar.
Does malted milk help you sleep?
Brands often suggest it as a bedtime drink, but we did not find solid evidence for a sleep benefit. The warm milk ritual may simply be relaxing.
Does malted milk contain gluten?
Usually yes, because it is made with wheat flour and malt from grain. Check the label.
Sources
About · How we verify this · Editorial policy · Corrections
What would help you most next?
One tap. Anonymous. It helps us decide what to build.
Thank you. The free charts above are yours to keep.
