If you’ve ever been to Switzerland, you know the Swiss are passionate about precision, mountains, and… Ovo (short for Ovomaltine, or Ovaltine in some countries)! Yes, the iconic orange tin with the bright blue writing isn’t just a breakfast drink here – it’s practically a way of life. Ovomaltine is one of the 20 most popular brands in Switzerland, and an incredible 99% of Swiss people know it. Whether as a drink, a chocolate bar, or a crunchy spread, Ovo is everywhere—and we wouldn’t have it any other way!
What is Ovomaltine/Ovaltine?
Originally invented in Switzerland in 1904 as a malted drink to boost energy, Ovomaltine has evolved into a full-blown national obsession. While the rest of the world sips it occasionally, the Swiss have taken it to the next level.
But how did this iconic drink come to be? The story begins back in 1865, when Dr. Georg Wander, a Swiss pharmacist, founded the Wander company in Bern. Motivated by the high childhood mortality rate due to malnutrition, he set out to create a solution and developed a malt extract. After Georg’s sudden death, his son Albert, a chemist and pharmacist in his own right, took the reins. He didn’t just carry on his father’s work—he took it up a notch. By enriching the malt extract with nutrient-packed ingredients like egg, milk, and cocoa, Albert transformed it into what we now know as Ovomaltine. First sold in 1904, it was initially marketed as a medical preparation in pharmacies, not the beloved treat we know today!
The business is thriving
Soon healthy active consumers discovered the strength-enhancing effect of this revolutionary beverage. Sportsmen and women in particular appreciated Ovomaltine as a satisfying snack with a nice taste. Ovomaltine took Switzerland by storm and from 1906 the excitement spread to the world beyond. To handle the fast and sustained growth, the Ovomaltine factory was relocated from Bern to Neuenegg where it remains operational to this day.
More Than Just a Drink
Sure, you can enjoy Ovomaltine as a hot beverage, but why stop there when you can spread it on your morning toast? Yes, Ovomaltine Crunchy Cream is the peanut butter of Switzerland – rich, chocolatey, and with a crunchy malt twist that makes Nutella seem boring in comparison.
But the Swiss didn’t stop at bread spreads. There’s Ovomaltine chocolate bars, Ovomaltine ice cream, Ovomaltine cookies, Ovomaltine snack bars, Ovomaltine cereals, and even Ovomaltine croissants. Walk into any Swiss supermarket, and you’ll find entire shelves dedicated to this malted marvel.
Why the Hype?
For me, Ovomaltine is more than just a treat—it’s a taste of childhood. It takes me right back to school trips, sports days, and ski excursions. After a fun-filled winter’s day on the slopes, nothing felt better than wrapping my frozen fingers around a warm mug of Ovomaltine. And on long hikes, a piece of “Ovo Sport” was the ultimate energy boost, fueling me for the next stretch of adventure.
Some still swear by Ovomaltine’s “healthy” reputation (it did start as a nutritional supplement, after all), but let’s be real—it’s just delicious. That unique blend of malt, cocoa, and a little bit of magic? Irresistible. And honestly, who wouldn’t want to eat a cookie that claims to give you energy?
Where to Try It
If you’re visiting Switzerland, take it from a local—you can’t leave without indulging in an Ovomaltine milkshake or grabbing a few Ovomaltine chocolate bars as souvenirs. I grew up with this stuff, and trust me, it’s more than just a treat—it’s a way of life. And if you happen to stumble upon a grocery store or bakery selling Ovomaltine-filled pastries, consider it your lucky day (because I’d be first in line!).
Whether you’re a chocolate lover or just curious about quirky Swiss obsessions, Ovomaltine is an experience you won’t want to miss. Just be warned: one bite, and you might find yourself as hooked as I am. Welcome to the fan club!
Want to discover more delicious Swiss specialties? Check out my articles on Ricola, the world-famous herbal candy, and Elmer Citro, Switzerland’s refreshing secret soda!
