What is condensed milk?

Condensed milk is cow’s milk from which water has been evaporated. It is most often found in the form of sweetened condensed milk, with sugar added, and the two terms ‘condensed milk’ and ‘sweetened condensed milk’ are often used synonymously today.

This product is not sterilized but is preserved by the high concentration of sugar which raises the osmotic pressure of the product to a level where it is microbiological stable.

Sugar usually is scores, is dissolved in the milk before evaporation to give a total sugar content of 55%-60%. Highly refined granulated sugar is normally used.

Sweetened condensed milk is very thick, sweet product which when canned can last for years without refrigeration if unopened.

Manufacturer of toffee, caramel and fudge are the major user of sweetened condensed milk.

The low moisture content of sweetened condensed milk allows a reduction in boiling time, and the possibility of hydrolysis of sucrose to fructose and glucose is avoided.

The milk-fat in sweetened condensed milk contributes a unique flavor to toffees, caramels and fudges as well as providing characteristics texture and palate lubrication.

Sweetened condensed milk for industrial used is either filled into drums (250 kg) or is delivered in road tankers.
What is condensed milk?