Why is Ovomaltine Drink classified as ultra‑processed (NOVA 4) and what specific additives does it contain?

The beverage is labelled NOVA 4 because it includes several industrial ingredients such as added sugars, flavorings, a thickening agent (carrageenan, E407), acidity regulators (dicalcium phosphate, E341 and magnesium carbonate, E504i) and a vitamin blend. These components are combined with milk powders and cocoa to create a shelf‑stable, ready‑to‑drink product.

How does the sugar and saturated fat content in Ovomaltine Drink affect a diabetic or cardiovascular diet?

With 9.2 g of sugar per 100 ml, the drink can raise blood glucose levels and should be limited by people managing diabetes. The 1.2 g of saturated fat per 100 ml may increase LDL cholesterol, so individuals concerned about heart health should also consume it sparingly despite its lower sugar than many competing drinks.

Is the milk present in Ovomaltine Drink a concern for people with lactose intolerance or milk allergy?

Yes. The formula contains whole milk (44 %), skimmed milk (22 %) and both whole and skimmed milk powders, providing a significant source of lactose and milk proteins. It is therefore unsuitable for anyone with a milk allergy and may cause symptoms in lactose‑intolerant individuals.

Ovomaltine, WANDER • 250ml

Ovomaltine Drink

Beverages

Product Insights

Ovomaltine Drink is a sweetened milk‑based cocoa beverage marketed as a ready‑to‑drink instant drink. It falls under the Beverages and Sweetened beverages groups, carries a NOVA 4 classification indicating ultra‑processed status, and does not display a Nutri‑Score rating. Per 100 ml it provides 77 kcal with 2 g fat (including 1.2 g saturated fat), 9.2 g sugars, 0.11 g salt, 3.1 g protein and supplies calcium and several vitamins, offering energy and micronutrients but also relatively high fat and added sugars.

Nutrient Levels

Traffic light indicators

Fat

moderate

Saturated Fat

moderate

Sugars

high

Salt

low

Nutritional Values

Values per 100 ml

Energy Kcal77 kcal

Fat2 g

Saturated Fat1.2 g

Carbohydrates11.6 g

Sugars9.2 g

Comparative Analysis

Compared with the average sweetened beverage, this drink contains less sugar but markedly more fat and saturated fat while its salt level is below the category average.

Ingredients

LAIT entier 44%, eau, LAIT écrémé 22%, poudre pour boisson à base de malt Ovomaltine 7.5% (extrait de malt d'ORGE 3.3%, LAIT écrémé condense, sucre, cacao en poudre fortement dégraissé, LAIT entier en poudre, LAIT écrémé en poudre, sels minéraux (orthophosphate dicalcique, carbonate de magnésium), sel de cuisine, arôme (vanilline)), sucre, correcteurs d'acidité (orthophosphate dicalcique, carbonate de magnésium), épaississant (carraghénane), vitamines (E, thiamine, riboflavine, niacine, B6, acide folique, biotine, acide pantothénique).

84%

35%

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