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Where Does Milka Chocolate Come From? Discover the Sweet Origins of Europe’s Creamiest Chocolate

By InOut Snackz  •  0 comments  •   4 minute read

Where Does Milka Chocolate Come From? Discover the Sweet Origins of Europe’s Creamiest Chocolate

If you’ve ever unwrapped a silky purple package of Milka chocolate, chances are you've wondered: where does Milka chocolate come from? Known for its melt-in-your-mouth texture and sweet alpine milk flavour, Milka has become a global chocolate icon—but its roots trace back to a very specific region and rich history in Europe.

In this post, we’ll answer that exact question, explore Milka’s history, unique ingredients, cultural impact, and why this European favourite continues to charm chocolate lovers around the world.


A Quick Answer: Where Does Milka Chocolate Come From?

Milka chocolate originated in Switzerland in 1901 but became most closely associated with Germany over the 20th century. Today, it’s produced primarily in Lörrach, Germany, where the largest Milka factory is located. However, its Alpine heritage—especially the use of Alpine milk—is still a core part of the brand’s identity.


The History of Milka Chocolate

Swiss Beginnings

Milka was first created by Suchard, a Swiss chocolatier founded by Philippe Suchard in 1826. The name "Milka" was trademarked in 1901 and is a portmanteau of two German words: “Milch” (milk) and “Kakao” (cocoa)—a nod to its creamy ingredients.

The chocolate gained popularity quickly across Europe due to its soft texture and accessible sweetness, compared to the darker, more bitter chocolates popular at the time.

German Expansion

Though its roots are Swiss, Milka’s production began shifting to Germany, specifically to the town of Lörrach in the Baden-Württemberg region, near the Swiss border. By the mid-20th century, Milka was firmly entrenched in the German market and became a staple in households across Europe.

Today, Lörrach remains the main production hub of Milka chocolate. This German connection often leads many to assume Milka is a German brand—though it truly bridges Swiss and German traditions.


The Iconic Purple Cow

One of Milka’s most recognizable features is its packaging—especially the purple cow, which has become a symbol of Alpine purity, fresh milk, and European chocolate-making tradition.

The purple colour was first used in the 1970s and helped cement Milka’s unique visual identity. Since then, the cow has remained front and centre in nearly all of Milka’s advertising and branding, reinforcing its image as a wholesome, creamy, and approachable chocolate.


What Makes Milka Chocolate So Creamy?

The standout feature of Milka chocolate is its use of Alpine milk, which is sourced from cows raised in the European Alps. This high-quality milk, known for its natural richness and purity, is blended with cocoa to create a smooth, velvety chocolate texture.

While other brands may focus on cocoa percentage or exotic ingredients, Milka leans into creaminess and sweetness, making it particularly appealing for everyday snacking, sharing, or gifting.


Global Reach, European Roots

Although Milka is now available worldwide—from Canada and the U.S. to Asia and South America—it remains deeply rooted in its European origins. The brand was acquired by Mondelēz International (formerly Kraft Foods) in 2012, helping expand its international presence while maintaining its Alpine identity.

The chocolate continues to be manufactured in Europe and exported globally, ensuring that every bar you unwrap—no matter where you are—still reflects that authentic European flavour.


Popular Milka Chocolate Varieties

Over the years, Milka has released dozens of varieties that showcase both classic and innovative flavours. Some of the most popular include:

  • Milka Alpine Milk – The original and most iconic.
  • Milka Oreo – A fusion of two snack powerhouses.
  • Milka Hazelnut – A nutty twist on the classic.
  • Milka Strawberry Cream – A fruit-forward favorite.
  • Milka & Daim – With crunchy caramel bits inside.
  • Milka Choco-Swing – Layered with biscuit and cream.

No matter the variation, the base Alpine milk chocolate remains a key part of the experience.


Fun Facts About Milka

  • Over 150,000 cows are part of Milka’s Alpine milk supply chain.
  • The Lörrach factory produces over 100,000 tons of chocolate every year.
  • Milka is one of the top-selling chocolate brands in Europe, especially in Germany, France, and Poland.
  • In 2011, Milka set a world record by creating the largest chocolate bar ever made—over 5,000 kg!

Why People Love Milka

The appeal of Milka goes beyond just flavor. Consumers often describe it as nostalgic, comforting, and familiar. Many people in Europe grew up with Milka bars in their lunchboxes or as treats during holidays.

In markets outside Europe, Milka is seen as a premium import, representing authentic European chocolate craftsmanship. Its smoothness, high-quality ingredients, and attractive packaging make it a go-to for anyone seeking a milder, creamier chocolate.


Where to Buy Milka Chocolate

If you're craving Milka and wondering where to get it, you're in luck. While local availability varies, Milka is often found at:

  • International snack stores (like InOutSnackz!)
  • Online candy shops
  • European grocery imports
  • Amazon and major retailers

Pro tip: At InOutSnackz, you can explore different Milka flavours imported directly from Europe—no travel required.


Final Thoughts: Milka’s Timeless Appeal

So, where does Milka chocolate come from? While it was born in Switzerland and raised in Germany, the true answer is that Milka comes from a rich European tradition of chocolate-making, where quality, creaminess, and heritage meet.

From its Alpine milk roots to its purple cow mascot, Milka remains one of the world’s most beloved chocolate brands. Whether you’re trying it for the first time or revisiting a childhood favourite, Milka always delivers the same smooth, comforting sweetness that has delighted generations.


Want to try Milka for yourself?
Check out our curated collection of imported Milka chocolate bars and other European treats—no subscription required, just delicious snacks delivered to your door.

👉 Shop Milka at InOutSnackz

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97 reviews
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rOBIN rOSS
Gord
Nice store with some rare imports in terms of chips/crisps, drinks and candy.
Christofer Espinoza
Luis Angel Fernandez
Charlene Hooey
U gotta check out this store it’s amazing such amazing staff to so many different
Colton Dorie
Greatest place to grab snacks, open at great times and the staffs always as helpful and friendly as can be. Great place
Kelly Hornblower
High quality, really tough to find items. Serbian, japanese, UK. Excellent customer service.
Onya Thompson-Mitchoff
Amazing service. Highly recommend ordering off the website if you can’t make it in. The box was packed great and lots of new things to try!
Anna-Lee Helps
Great international varieties to explore from across the globe, and friendly staff! (We bought a chocolate bar from Ireland, and drinks from South Korea, the US, and Japan!)
Are
Staff welcomed me as soon as I walked in. I asked about mystery boxes. Said they would build for any budget. Package secured and the items were pretty good. I like how you can go on their website and rate each item if you liked it or not. They even give you points which you can use to redeem free stuff. Cool concept and I'll definitely be back.
laura coe
Always friendly service and go out there way To get me my products ! Great gang at in n out snacks !
Xad Nostalgic
Excellent selection and very friendly
Lee Brennan
A great range of product, and super awesome staff who are willing to go above and beyond to help you get what you’re looking for. They will set up reminders for when new products come in store and there is even a rewards program. Lovely stuff!
Josh
Awesome place. Heard they had exotic snacks from out of Canada had to pay a visit. They have quite a bit of stuff already. Really nice staff as well.
Andrew T EOS Heating and Air inc.
Nice store, lots of selection. Spent $90 on international snacks easy, exactly what i needed
Zach Reid
Amazing place for unique options
Rebecca Connell
Carolyn Sherriffs
This place is awesome! Such friendly service and always a good variety! My go to spot for snacks!
Sean Browne
Very knowledgeable and polite, would recommend, definitely will go back.
Hope Ioannidis
Great selection !! Friendly staff !! Must check out.
Maggie Garvin
Such a great spot to find the coolest international snacks & drinks!
Dylan Price
Very friendly staff with a wide range of products from different countries. Well worth the money you spend. Check it out for sure
Ryan Klatt
Cool spot with great staff. Interesting shop with an excellent variety of snacks and drinks. Setting up to seek lotto and alcohol soon too.
Travis Burley
Dana Lewis
Great selection of international snacks (and taco Bell sauces), very friendly and helpful staff
One Wild Voice
So many strange treasures! Just had a vanilla soda that is out of this world. I'm excited to try the different tests I got.... And Kush for showing me around. Cheers
Noah Hagan
Amazing store go once a week “Milka” bars are a must try
Kat Potts
Sydney Natale
Fun selection of international snacks!
Andrew Hawkes
My kid love going here for all the snacks that they can't get any where else.
Drew Macneil
Will
They have a great selection of snacks and drinks from across the globe. My order of bundaberg drinks arrived quickly. Tracking was easy and customer support is quick. I would order again!
sushant
Its a amazing , shop for all types of snacks including asian snacks in affordable prices. And the owner is very friendly. You must visit ones to end your craving for snacks .
Lilly Young
Nate Shiers
Kevin D. Baker
Great environment and a ton of great imported snacks!
Kalans Fun Channel
such a nice store to get exotic snacks, the pricing was great compared to others!
Alexandra Coulson
In Out Snacks is my go-to spot for unique and exotic snacks! Every time I visit, I find something new and exciting to try—from rare international chips to crazy-flavored candies and drinks you can’t find anywhere else. Ro and Kush super friendly and always happy to recommend their favorites, which makes the experience even better. I love how organized and inviting the store feels, and the prices are fair for the quality and variety they offer. If you’re a snack lover like me, this place is a must-visit. Can’t wait to go back and see what new treats they have next time!
Jen Ashfield
Great first experience ordering from this shop. I love that each product has the country of origin in the title. Ordering was fun and simple and the delivery was super quick. Also really well packaged, nothing damaged despite the mix of drinks and soft/breakable snacks.
Tylor McCrindle
Inoutsnacks has a wide variety of international treats from many countries and very friendly and inviting employees . The prices and fair and if your feeling a surprise they put together international mystery boxes ranging in prices fun place and awesome people
Kayleigh Hogan
Great products, very good prices and the delivery was so fast that I was floored. I ordered well after 6PM and the owner offered to deliver that night regardless. If I gave a slightly more in depth review I would say that the owner was very knowledgeable and sent messages to let me know what the dates on the products were (manufacturing dates instead of expiry) and how to get some of the Japanese soda bottles open in case I wasn't aware. I found him to be extremely open to any help I might need and a good conversationalist. I am confident that if I had any questions he would have figured out whatever it is I needed to know and would not have made me feel like a burden for asking. The products, in general, are very diverse with a lot of interesting stuff that I haven't seen elsewhere. I particularly found the Australia sodas very interesting - the blood orange was delicious, A great local business and good asset to the community. I'll surely shop again! Thanks so much for the great service and products in our community!
Hayden Bassett
I have to say these guys are amazing the best snacks around the best deals and just overall great people man!
Daniella Rediron
Totally amazing shop. Great product with great service. Can't believe we can find snacks from other countries here in Belleville. Prices are good, especially for imported items. It's totally cool. Korean selections, which was great.
Melanie Windsor
Highly recommend InOutSnackz....Can get food items that Canada doesn't have or hard to get....I had them deliver for me and was met with a pleasant young Man...will definately order again and better yet come into the store...thank you so much and my kids will thank you too.
Melissa Newell
If you’re looking for a unique treat from somewhere around the world, they may have it. Got the snickers nougat I was after, plus a couple unique flavours from around the world. Also got a triple chocolate Twix from Brazil. The guy who was running it was the sweetest, kindest guy. Soon time to go back… I’m almost out of my stash!
Antion Yawney (Jacc Frawst)
Easily the best shop for your snack goods. Amazing drinks, chips, candy, and chocolate from around the world. Endless options and always amazing service every time I stop in.
Darian Stjohn
My new favorite stop in Belleville. The owner and staff are really friendly and great for conversation. The products are all great, there's definitely something for everyone and if somehow there isn't, you can leave suggestions! They offer discounts regularly, often in the form of fun little skill/luck based challenges. For prices, they are incredible! Honestly, it takes a few minutes of looking at receipts to realize you're getting a better deal here than any gas station or convience store, not even accounting for the fact these products are imported and taste better in my opinion!
Gwen S
Fast delivery of amazing chocolates from the UK
Amanda Johnson
Amazing selection of snacks that you can't find anywhere else. Very kind and helpful, they kept in contact with me over text throughout the day and delivered exactly when they said they would. Will definitely be ordering again soon! Thank you so much!
Jay Patel