MILO is a popular malt-based beverage enjoyed by many households. However, Nestlé advises that children below 6 years should not regularly consume MILO. This recommendation is based on health, nutrition, and child development considerations, not because MILO is unsafe, but because younger children have different nutritional needs.
1. High Sugar Sensitivity in Young Children
Children under 6 years are more sensitive to sugar than older children.
Excess sugar intake at this age can cause tooth decay, poor feeding habits, and unhealthy weight gain.
Health experts generally recommend little or no added sugar for children under 5–6 years.
2. Presence of Cocoa (Caffeine Content)
MILO contains cocoa, which naturally has small amounts of caffeine.
Young children’s nervous systems are still developing.
Even small amounts of caffeine may lead to restlessness, sleep disturbance, or reduced appetite in children below 6 years.
3. Different Nutritional Needs for Children Under 6
Children below 6 years need:
Age-specific foods rich in iron, healthy fats, and protein
Easily digestible meals that support growth and brain development
MILO is designed mainly as an energy drink for school-age children, not as a primary nutrition source for toddlers and preschoolers.
4. Risk of Replacing Proper Meals
Because MILO is sweet and filling:
Young children may prefer it to normal meals
This can reduce intake of essential nutrients from solid foods
Amount of Sugar in MILO
MILO contains both naturally occurring sugars and added sugars.
Milk and malt in MILO contain natural sugars, which make up about 40% of the total sugar in the product.
The added sugar in one prepared cup of MILO is approximately 1.5 to 2 teaspoons, depending on preparation.
Nestlé advises consumers to follow the preparation instructions on the package, as adding extra powder or sugar increases total sugar intake.
Nestlé’s Efforts to Reduce Sugar in MILO
Driven by its purpose of unlocking the power of food to enhance quality of life for everyone, and responding to changing consumer demands, Nestlé has made clear commitments to reducing sugar in its foods and beverages.
- Nestlé reduced sugar usage in its products by 39,000 tons between 2014 and 2016.
- The company committed to reducing added sugars by 5% by 2020.
Continuous research and new food technologies are being used to reduce sugar while keeping products tasty and nourishing.
