Milo Day (Miro no Hi)

What Is Milo Day?

Every year on March 6, Japan celebrates "Milo Day." It was established by Nestlé Japan to spread awareness of the malted beverage Milo, which is enjoyed around the world. The day is registered with the Japan Anniversary Association. The date comes from a wordplay on "mi (3) ro (6)" — the numbers 3 and 6 read like "Milo." Beyond its role as a drink that supports children's growth, Milo has recently been getting renewed attention among adults as a habit for maintaining health and boosting iron intake.

The History of the Malted Drink Milo

Milo has a long history of supporting nutrition at dining tables around the world.

• How it began: Milo was created by Thomas Mayne of Nestlé Australia to help address malnutrition among children during the Great Depression, and was launched at the 1934 Sydney Royal Easter Show.
• Where the name comes from: It's named after Milo of Croton, a legendary strongman from 6th-century BCE Greek lore said to have carried a bull on his shoulders — a symbol of strength.
• Spreading across Japan: Milo launched in Japan in 1973 in glass jars and became known for the catchphrase "Milo for strong kids."

Nutrition and Health Benefits

Besides malt extract, Milo contains minerals and vitamins.

• Minerals and vitamins: Milo contains two minerals — iron and calcium — and six vitamins including vitamin D, and has drawn attention from adults looking to get more iron.
• Malt extract: Milo's malt extract consists mainly of glucose linked in chains of various lengths, a source of energy.

Fun Facts About Milo

• Variations around the world: In Japan, it's most common to mix the powder with milk, but overseas Milo is also sold in cans, bottles, and even as cereal or chocolate snacks.
• The trick to dissolving it well: Milo doesn't dissolve easily in cold milk, but stirring it into a small amount of warm milk or hot water first creates a smooth mixture without lumps.
• A sporty connection: Overseas, Milo is known for supporting junior sports events and is closely associated with sport.
• So popular it paused sales: In 2020, Milo went viral on social media and orders surged; in December that year Nestlé Japan suspended sales of some products, resuming shipments in March 2021.

A Healthy Cup to Accelerate Your Morning

March 6 is a day to nourish your body and charge up on the nutrients it needs. Just like the legendary strongman Milo of Croton, fill yourself with energy so you can take on new challenges with confidence. Even on busy days, a small habit of putting your health first can become the foundation for big achievements later.

Ideas for Enjoying Milo Day

• Start your day with a cup of Milo, enjoying its toasty malt aroma and waking up your body and mind in a positive way
• Explore your own "Milo recipes" — try mixing it with soy milk or almond milk, or use it in baking
• Use Milo Day as a chance to reassess nutrients you might be lacking in your daily diet, like iron and calcium
• Share a cup of Milo with someone close to you and reminisce about childhood memories or talk about healthy habits

Overflowing Energy Turns Today Into Your Best Stage

March 6 is a day to start your morning with a cup of Milo. May balanced nutrition bring you peace of mind and the strength to easily clear whatever challenges lie ahead. May today be an energetic, smiling, and powerfully "energized" day for you!