What are the ingredients in banana flavored milk?

What is in banana flavored milk?

Most ready-to-drink banana flavored milk is made from the same few parts. The exact list differs by brand, country and whether it is low-fat, so always read the carton.

Common ingredients

• Milk: often low-fat or skim milk, which makes up most of the drink.
• Sugar or another sweetener: often high on the list in sweetened flavored milks.
• Banana flavor: may be “natural flavor,” “artificial flavor” or both. Many bottled products contain little or no real banana, so the label is the check.
• Stabilizers and thickeners: for example carrageenan or guar gum, which help keep the drink smooth.
• Vitamins A and D: added to many low-fat milks.
• Color or salt: some products add a color; some add a pinch of salt.

One well-known Korean bottled banana milk lists milk, water, sugar, a small amount of banana juice concentrate, flavor, emulsifiers, carrageenan, guar gum and a color on retail listings, so even a “banana” milk may contain little real fruit. Lists differ by country and version, so read the printed label.

Powder versions

Banana milkshake powders are a different product: you add the milk yourself, so check both the powder label and the milk you use.

Allergens and diets

• Banana flavored milk made with cow’s milk contains milk and lactose and is not dairy-free or vegan.
• Check for soy lecithin or other allergens in the Contains line.
• Added sugar can be significant; look at the Added Sugars line on the Nutrition Facts.

Simple homemade version

Blend 1 ripe banana with 1 cup of cold milk until smooth. Add a little honey or vanilla if you like. Drink it fresh or within about a day from the fridge. It is simpler, with no stabilizers, and the sweetness comes from the fruit.

General information; compare labels for the brand you buy.