Evaporated Milk
What is Evaporated Milk?
Evaporated milk is a condensed version of fresh milk, popular for its extended shelf life.1 In canned form, evaporated milk can last unrefrigerated for up to 15 months. The water content has been removed, so that it is concentrated up to one half of its original bulk. Evaporated milk is rarely bought for drinking. However, it is an easy substitute for fresh milk in baked products that does not sacrifice taste.
How it’s Made
Milk is put in a high pressure vacuum and heated to evaporate the water. Unlike regular milk processing, no sugar is added during the sterilization and homogenizing process. However, vitamin D is added under FDA regulations. Salt is also used as a stabilizing agent. The milk is then canned and sealed.
A variation of evaporated milk is sweetened condensed milk, which has added sugar. A much sweeter and richer product, condensed milk has a longer shelf life and is often used in ice cream or candy manufacturing.2
