A Malaysian woman has voiced her frustration online after paying RM16 for an iced chocolate drink, only to discover it was made using a premix powder rather than real chocolate.
In a Threads post, she questioned the value of the pricey beverage, saying, “After paying for the drink, I asked the cashier if they used 60% to 100% dark chocolate and she replied ‘we use a premix.’” The stall, reportedly set up in a parking space, was not named.
The woman argued that while premix powders are not inherently bad, the price charged did not match the quality. “Are they crazy selling a drink using a premix at RM16? Did they buy the premix at RM100 per kilogram?” she questioned.
Her post struck a chord with netizens, many sharing similar experiences of paying high prices for low-quality drinks. One user said, “I once supported a newly-opened cafe. I ordered an iced chocolate, and they poured chocolate milk from a carton and charged me RM12. I’m so done.” Another added, “Spent RM12 for instant coffee and fresh milk. They didn’t even use an espresso mix. I was so mad.”
Some users vented over the growing trend of overpriced premix drinks. “It makes me furious to find out that certain shops use premixes. At least with real coffee and milk, I’d feel I got my money’s worth,” one commented.
The incident has reignited discussions about pricing transparency and value for money in Malaysia’s booming beverage industry.

