Mageu: Mzansi's maize drink hits the spot

Mageu, a traditional South African drink made from fermented maize, is considered one of the most nutritious supplements and a good source of energy. But many love to hate it.

Mageu is a fermented non-alcoholic drink that can be drunk with or without added sugar and flavours. It is widely consumed in South Africa, especially in farming or rural areas where they normally cook it themselves.

In an article published on Health For Mzansi, fans of the traditional share why they enjoy this much-loved fermented drink.

Pep in your step

Besides mageu being one of Tshepo Jordan’s favourite drinks, the young student from Rustenburg also enjoys it because it gives him sufficient energy to take on the day.

“I enjoy drinking mageu. It keeps me energetic in a good way, and it makes me feel quite healthy. My favourite is the cream flavour, however, I also enjoy all the other flavours. Mageu is a perfect drink, it fills me up, gives me energy, and is delicious,” he says.

For Onke Mweza from Johannesburg, mageu became a meal replacement and rescued him when he had a throat infection and could not eat or chew.

“I do not drink mageu quite often. The only reason I was drinking it at the time was that I was sick and couldn’t eat solid food. I had a throat infection which is why I was unable to eat solids; it was physically painful when trying to swallow.”

Is it healthy though?

While having too much of it can contribute to weight gain, the fermentation process involved in making mageu can contribute largely to its nutritional value.

Roodepoort-based registered dietitian, Sindi-Marie de Beer says: “Due to the fermentation, it is easier to digest (easier to stomach), and it’s also lactose-free. Mageu has traditionally been consumed as a portion of comfort food during illness.”

De Beer also explains that people who are sick usually drink mageu as it helps provide much-needed energy.