Malt Beverage: Types, Benefits, and Everything You Need to Know
Malt beverages are among the most diverse and widely consumed drinks in the world. From rich, creamy malted shakes to crisp, refreshing beers, malt-based drinks have something for everyone. But what exactly is a malt beverage, and why is it so popular?
This guide explains what malt beverages are, how they’re made, their different types, health aspects, and even fun ways to enjoy them. Whether you’re curious about the health benefits of malted drinks or looking for the best malt-based alcoholic options, this article covers it all.
What is a Malt Beverage?
A malt beverage is any drink made primarily from malted barley or other grains. The malting process involves soaking grains, allowing them to sprout, and then drying them to develop natural enzymes and sweetness.
Key Ingredients
- Malted barley (the main source of flavor and sugar)
- Water
- Yeast (for fermentation in alcoholic drinks)
- Hops or flavoring agents (for taste)
Malt Beverage vs Beer vs Soft Drinks
| Drink Type | Main Ingredient | Alcohol Content | Flavor Profile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Malt Beverage | Malted barley & flavors | 0% – 8% | Sweet, nutty, caramel-like |
| Beer | Malted barley & hops | 4% – 8% | Bitter, hoppy, crisp |
| Soft Drinks | Sugar, artificial flavors | 0% | Sweet, carbonated |
How Are Malt Beverages Made? (The Brewing Process)
- Malting – Barley grains are soaked, germinated, and dried to develop enzymes.
- Mashing – The malt is mixed with water to extract sugars.
- Boiling & Flavoring – Hops, chocolate, or fruit flavors are added.
- Fermentation (for alcoholic types) – Yeast converts sugars into alcohol.
- Filtration & Carbonation – The drink is clarified and carbonated.
Non-alcoholic malt drinks skip or limit fermentation, keeping them sweet and kid-friendly.
Types of Malt Beverages
1. Alcoholic Malt Beverages
- Beer – Lager, ale, stout, and porter are all malt-based.
- Malt Liquor – Stronger, sweeter beer-like drink (6–8% alcohol).
- Flavored Malt Beverages – Hard lemonades, wine coolers, and seltzers made with a malt base.
2. Non-Alcoholic Malt Beverages
- Malted Soft Drinks – Horlicks, Milo, Boost, Ovaltine.
- Non-Alcoholic Beer – Malt beer with alcohol removed.
- Barbican & Malta Guinness – Popular fizzy malt drinks in many countries.
Taste and Flavor Profile
Malt naturally gives a drink a sweet, nutty, and caramel-like taste.
- Alcoholic malt drinks – Rich, roasted, or slightly bitter.
- Non-alcoholic malt drinks – Creamy, chocolatey, or fruity (depending on flavoring).
Nutritional Value & Health Benefits
1. Nutritional Overview (per 100ml non-alcoholic malt drink)
- Calories: ~70–90 kcal
- Carbohydrates: ~15–18g
- Protein: ~1–3g
- B Vitamins: Good source (thiamine, niacin, riboflavin)
2. Potential Health Benefits
✔ Provides quick energy (great for athletes or growing kids)
✔ Good source of B vitamins & minerals
✔ May support digestion (due to malted barley enzymes)
3. Drawbacks
✘ High sugar content in sweetened malt drinks
✘ Alcoholic malt beverages can contribute to weight gain & liver stress if overconsumed
Popular Brands of Malt Beverages
Alcoholic
- Budweiser
- Colt 45
- Smirnoff Ice (malt-based)
Non-Alcoholic
- Horlicks
- Boost
- Milo
- Ovaltine
- Barbican
Who Should Drink Malt Beverages?
Recommended For:
✔ Kids, teens, and athletes (only non-alcoholic)
✔ Adults looking for a nutritious alternative to soft drinks
Avoid or Limit If:
✘ You’re diabetic (due to high sugar)
✘ You’re avoiding alcohol (choose strictly non-alcoholic versions)
Creative Ways to Enjoy Malt Beverages
- Pairing with Food – Beer with grilled meats, malted drinks with cookies or biscuits
- Cocktails & Mocktails – Mix fruit juices with malt drinks for unique flavors
- Baking & Cooking – Use malt drinks in cakes, pancakes, or marinades
FAQs About Malt Beverages
1. What is the difference between malt liquor and beer?
Malt liquor is a stronger, sweeter version of beer with higher alcohol content.
2. Is a malt beverage good for health?
Non-alcoholic malt drinks can provide energy and nutrients, but alcoholic ones should be consumed in moderation.
3. Can kids drink malt beverages?
Yes, but only non-alcoholic malt-based drinks, such as Horlicks or Milo.
4. Does a malt beverage contain alcohol?
Some do (beer, malt liquor), while others are completely alcohol-free.
Conclusion
Malt beverages are versatile, flavorful, and available in countless varieties—from creamy malted shakes to crisp beers. If you enjoy them responsibly, they can be a tasty and, in some cases, nutritious part of your diet.
Whether you prefer a comforting hot malt drink or a chilled bottle of malt beer, there’s a malt beverage for every taste.