Milka's lilac cow is one of the most recognisable mascots in European chocolate, and the shade of purple behind it is protected as a trademark.
A Swiss name built from milk and cocoa
Milka's name is a portmanteau of Milch (milk) and Kakao (cacao), created in 1901 by the Swiss chocolate company founded by Philippe Suchard. Ownership has changed hands several times since, and the brand now sits under Mondelez International, with major production in Bludenz, Austria, and Lorrach, Germany.
Lila the cow
Milka's lilac cow mascot, known as Lila, first appeared in German television advertising in 1972 and has remained the brand's central character ever since, usually shown grazing on impossibly green Alpine pasture.
Why that exact shade of purple matters
Milka's specific tone of lilac isn't just a colour choice — it's a registered trademark in a number of European countries. That protection has led to real legal disputes over the years, most notably with Cadbury, over which brand can use particular shades of purple on chocolate packaging.
The Alpine milk claim
Milka markets its chocolate as being made with Alpine milk, sourced from dairy farms in designated Alpine regions rather than generic dairy supply. It's a claim central to the brand's identity as an Alpine chocolate, tying the lilac cow imagery to a specific geographic origin story. You'll find it sitting alongside other big European names in our chocolate collection.
Frequently asked questions
Is Milka Swiss or German?
Milka was founded in Switzerland in 1901 by chocolatier Philippe Suchard's company, but the brand is now owned by Mondelez International and its chocolate is mainly produced in Bludenz, Austria, and Lorrach, Germany.
Why is Milka's packaging always purple?
The specific shade of lilac has been part of Milka's branding since the early 20th century and is registered as a trademark in several European countries, which has led to legal disputes with other chocolate brands, including Cadbury, over the use of purple packaging.
What does Alpine milk mean on Milka packaging?
Milka markets its chocolate as being made with milk sourced specifically from Alpine dairy farms, a claim tied to its Alpenmilch branding and used to position the chocolate as coming from a specific, high-quality dairy region.