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Brand owned by Zydus Wellness (India) · about the brand
Complan 100% Milk Protein
Decode Label Safety Score
How we got 1.5 ShowHide
Reviewed 72 times · Methodology v3.1 (updated 8 Oct 2026) — what changed
This chocolate-flavored malt drink, marketed for children, contains a significant amount of sugar and an ammonia-process caramel colour (INS 150c) which is associated with the formation of 4-MEI, classified by IARC as Group 2B (possibly carcinogenic to humans). While the label does not state the concentration of 4-MEI, this additive is a notable concern for a product aimed at children. The presence of peanut oil also makes it unsuitable for individuals with peanut allergies. The overall formulation is highly processed, with multiple additives and a high sugar content, which is not ideal for regular consumption by children.
At a glance
From the declared label — not a lab testFindings to weigh
What’s favorable
- Milk Solids
- Cocoa
- Minerals
- Beet Red (INS162)
- Vitamins
- +3 more →
Declared allergens: Peanuts and Milk
People with these allergies should avoid it and check the pack’s own allergen statement.
Based on the declared ingredient list. This is a risk only to people with the allergy, not a general-population safety issue, so it does not lower the safety score.
High added sugar; contains IARC-classified caramel colour and peanut allergen
This malt drink, intended for children, is high in sugar and contains Caramel (INS 150c), an ammonia-process colour that can generate 4-MEI, which the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) classifies as Group 2B (possibly carcinogenic to humans). It also contains peanut oil, a major allergen, making it unsafe for children with peanut allergies. The product's highly processed nature and sugar content are significant nutritional concerns for its target audience.
Consider this product carefully if you are
- Looking for a lower-sugar option — Added sugar is 21.8 g per 100 g.
- Avoiding certain additives or colours — Caramel (INS150c) is declared.
Concern breakdown
Score out of 10 · higher = fewer concernsHow this product performs on each concern we check for beverage. This is a breakdown of the same evidence behind the score above — not a separate verdict.
Infants under 1
AvoidContains added sugar, which is not recommended for infants under 1 year of age.
Toddlers & young children (1–5)
LimitHigh added sugar content should be limited in the diets of young children, for dental health and to avoid establishing a preference for very sweet foods.
Other audiences
LimitThe product is high in added sugar and contains Maltodextrin, which can contribute to excessive sugar intake and dental issues. Moderation is advised.
Contains Caramel (INS 150c), an ammonia-process colour. While the concentration of potential by-products like 4-MEI is not stated, it is a factor for parents to consider in children's diets.
Why the score is capped
Contains ammonia caramel colour (E150c/d) — which can generate 4-MEI during manufacture — IARC classifies 4-MEI as Group 2B (possibly carcinogenic to humans); this label does not state its concentration
Rule F-CAP-10 · Source: IARC / EFSA classification of the additive
Highly processed (NOVA) and high in sugar
Rule F-CAP-07
What's good
Fortified with essential vitamins and minerals
Contains beneficial amino acids (Inositol, Taurine, L-Carnitine)
Watch out for
High in added sugar, which is detrimental to children's dental health and overall diet.
Contains Maltodextrin, a highly processed carbohydrate that contributes to the sugar load.
Presence of Caramel (INS 150c), an ammonia-process colour with potential concerns regarding 4-MEI formation.
Contains Peanut Oil, a significant allergen.
Ingredient Concerns safety database
Sources cited below may be Indian (FSSAI) or international (EU, US, WHO, IARC) — an international classification or law is evidence, not an Indian regulatory finding.
Peanuts
Peanut allergy is one of the most common and severe food allergies, capable of causing anaphylaxis — a potentially fatal allergic reaction. Even trace amounts (cross-contamination) can trigger reactions. Peanut allergy is usually lifelong and requires strict avoidance. Always carry an epinephrine auto-injector if allergic.
Regulatory & scientific authority Source: FSSAI; FDA; Allergy & Asthma Network
Peanuts: regulation, sources and other products →Caramel Colour (Class III & IV) (E150c)
Classes III and IV of caramel colour (INS 150c/150d) are made with ammonia, a process that can generate 4-methylimidazole (4-MEI) as a by-product. IARC classifies 4-MEI as Group 2B, possibly carcinogenic to humans, and California lists it under Proposition 65 with a warning threshold — though EFSA's own re-evaluation did not reach the same level of concern as IARC's classification. This label does not state the product's 4-MEI concentration, so exposure from this specific product cannot be determined from the ingredient list alone. It is the colour that makes colas and dark sauces brown. Classes I and II are made without ammonia and do not carry this concern.
Regulatory & scientific authority Source: IARC Monograph Vol. 101 (4-MEI); California Proposition 65; EFSA re-evaluation of caramel colours (2011)
Caramel Colour (Class III & IV): regulation, sources and other products →Decode Label Analysis
Contains Peanut Oil, a major allergen that can cause life-threatening anaphylaxis in sensitive individuals. This is a declarable allergen under FSSAI Labelling & Display Regulations 2020.
Contains Caramel (INS 150c), an ammonia-process caramel colour. This type of caramel colour can generate 4-methylimidazole (4-MEI) during its manufacture, which is classified by the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) as Group 2B, 'possibly carcinogenic to humans'.
Claim check
Front-of-pack marketing claims checked against this product's actual ingredients and nutrition. "Can't verify" means the label does not provide enough information to check the claim — it is not the same as the claim being false.
The label does not provide information to verify the clinical claim of 2X faster growth.
The label does not provide information to verify the claim of supporting concentration and memory.
The ingredients list does not explicitly mention Kesar (saffron) or Badam (almond) as flavouring agents for the Kesar Badam variant, only 'Peanut Oil' and 'Caramel (INS150c)' are listed as flavor-related ingredients, which is not specific to Kesar Badam.
The ingredients list milk solids, which contain milk protein.
The nutrition information lists 34 different vitamins and minerals.
The ingredients list cocoa and chocolate flavor.
In label order — normally largest quantity first. Select a row for the full write-up and sources.
These are major food allergens named on the ingredient list. They are a risk only to people allergic to them — not a general-population safety issue — so they do not lower the safety score. Anyone with the allergy should avoid this product, and check the pack’s own allergen statement.
✓ Decode Label Assessment: Favorable ⚠ Decode Label Assessment: Concern Decode Label Assessment: Neutral
Who should take caution
About this ingredient
No detailed safety data in our database yet for this ingredient.
Learn More
| Energy | 419 kcal |
| Protein | 18 g |
| Carbohydrate | 62 g |
| Total Sugars | 45.5 g |
| Added Sugars | 21.8 g |
| Total Fat | 11 g |
| Sodium | 400 mg |
| Cholesterol | 0 mg |
| Calcium | 800 mg |
| Phosphorus | 780 mg |
| Vitamin D2 | 10 µg |
| Vitamin K | 45 µg |
| Magnesium | 76 mg |
| Manganese | 1.5 mg |
| Vitamin B1 | 0.5 mg |
| Vitamin B2 | 0.7 mg |
| Vitamin B3 | 6 mg |
| Vitamin B6 | 0.76 mg |
| Calcium Pantothenate | 3 mg |
| Biotin | 14 µg |
| Iodine | 0.1 mg |
| Iron | 13.5 mg |
| Vitamin B12 | 1 µg |
| Folic Acid | 75 µg |
| Vitamin A | 360 µg |
| Vitamin E | 7 mg |
| Vitamin C | 30 mg |
| Copper | 540 µg |
| Zinc | 4.5 mg |
| Selenium | 15 µg |
| Potassium | 920 mg |
| Chloride | 500 mg |
| Chromium | 7.5 µg |
| Molybdenum | 11 µg |
| Carnitine | 7 mg |
| Choline | 58 mg |
| Inositol | 30 mg |
| Taurine | 15 mg |
Colour shows the per-100g level (green = low, amber = moderate, red = high), from the product's label.
Compare with other health malt drink products
Assessed using the same Decode Label methodology, sorted by score. Each score reflects the information available for that product at the time of assessment.
Side-by-side comparisons
How this product's label compares with others on the same shelf, row by row.
What are the ingredients in Complan 100% Milk Protein?
The label of Complan 100% Milk Protein lists 13 ingredients, in label order: Milk Solids, Sugar, Peanut Oil, Maltodextrin, Cocoa, Chocolate Flavor, Caramel (INS150c), Minerals, Beet Red (INS162), Vitamins, Inositol, Taurine, L-Carnitine. Flagged by the analysis: Caramel (INS150c), Maltodextrin, Chocolate Flavor.
Is Complan 100% Milk Protein safe to eat?
Complan 100% Milk Protein scores 1.5/10 on Decode Label (Concerning). This malt drink, intended for children, is high in sugar and contains Caramel (INS 150c), an ammonia-process colour that can generate 4-MEI, which the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) classifies as Group 2B (possibly carcinogenic to humans). It also contains peanut oil, a major allergen, making it unsafe for children with peanut allergies. The product's highly processed nature and sugar content are significant nutritional concerns for its target audience.
Why does Complan 100% Milk Protein score 1.5/10?
Flagged in the score: Contains Maltodextrin, a highly processed carbohydrate that contributes to the sugar load. Also noted: High in added sugar, which is detrimental to children's dental health and overall diet. Presence of Caramel (INS 150c), an ammonia-process colour with potential concerns regarding 4-MEI formation.
Who should avoid Complan 100% Milk Protein?
The points the analysis notes are most relevant to: Peanut allergy; Avoiding IARC Group 2B caramel-colour additives; Limiting added sugars in children's diets; Sensitive to food additives; Milk allergy / lactose intolerance.
Is Complan 100% Milk Protein suitable for babies or young children?
Infants under 1: Avoid. Toddlers & young children (1–5): Limit.
Does Complan 100% Milk Protein contain allergens?
Yes — the ingredient list contains peanuts (Peanut Oil) and milk (Milk Solids). Check the allergen statement on the pack too if you have a diagnosed allergy.
Does Complan 100% Milk Protein contain peanuts?
Yes — the ingredient list names Peanut Oil. People with groundnut (peanut) allergy should treat it as containing peanuts, and check the allergen statement on the pack too.
Does Complan 100% Milk Protein contain milk?
Yes — the ingredient list names Milk Solids. People with milk allergy / lactose intolerance should treat it as containing milk, and check the allergen statement on the pack too.
Is Complan 100% Milk Protein high in sugar?
Yes — 45.5 g of total sugar per 100 g, above the 22.5 g per 100 g that UK front-of-pack labelling marks as high. The label declares 21.8 g of that as added sugar per 100 g.
Are the claims on the Complan 100% Milk Protein pack accurate?
Decode Label checked 6 claims against the ingredient list and nutrition panel. "clinically proven 2X faster growth" — can't be verified from the label. "supports concentration and memory" — can't be verified from the label. "Kesar Badam flavour" — can't be verified from the label.
Is Complan 100% Milk Protein vegetarian?
Complan 100% Milk Protein is marked vegetarian.
Answers are generated from this product's own Decode Label analysis — the score, the ingredient list and the label claims shown above. Always check the pack itself for allergen and dietary information.
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About this analysis: Based on declared label information and available evidence. Decode Label does not independently laboratory-test products, and a score is not a regulatory determination or medical advice.
Disclaimer: Safety scores are Decode Label-generated assessments based on publicly available regulatory data (FSSAI, WHO, EFSA, IARC) and peer-reviewed research. They are not a substitute for professional medical advice, and they are not a regulatory determination, a laboratory safety certification or a medical diagnosis. Ingredient safety can vary by individual health conditions, concentration, and usage context. Decode Label is an independent information service and scores every brand by the same rules. No brand pays for or influences its score. Our founder also founded the personal-care brand Botani Bestie (see our story); its products are scored exactly like everyone else's. Data limitations: This assessment is based on the information declared on the product label and the evidence sources above — Decode Label does not independently laboratory-test this product. Ingredient concentrations, sourcing and manufacturing can vary between batches and are not always disclosed. A finding that is not shown here means it was not identified from the available label information, not that it has been ruled out.
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