The contemporary US Milky Way bar relies on caramel and nougat, but which defining characteristic of the original 1923/1924 bar is now entirely absent?
Answer
Malted milk.
The initial foundation of the Milky Way bar was intrinsically linked to the ingredient malted milk, as evidenced by its name, which targeted the popularity of malted milkshakes. However, this core ingredient, initially prized for its taste and perceived health benefits originating from its use in infant formula in the late 1800s, has been entirely removed from the standard American Milky Way recipe over time. The evolution demonstrates a commercial prioritization: the immediate, rich appeal of fat and sugar content in the chocolate, caramel, and nougat combination ultimately outweighed the necessity of retaining the connection to the original, mildly healthier malted milk base.

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