Highlights
1. Condensed and evaporated milk originated from cow’s milk and have undergone various processes to extend their shelf life.
2. Condensed milk is made by removing water and adding sugar, resulting in a thick and sweet product that can last for years without refrigeration.
3. Evaporated milk is made by removing 60% of the water from fresh milk and can be reconstituted with water to create a rough equivalent of fresh milk. It is a reliable alternative to unpreserved fresh milk.
Introduction
Condensed and evaporated milk are two forms of milk that have undergone processes to extend their shelf-life. Condensed milk is made by removing water and adding sugar, resulting in a thick and sweet product that can last for years when canned. Evaporated milk, on the other hand, has 60% of its water removed and can be reconstituted with water to create a rough equivalent of fresh milk. Both types of milk have their own uses and are commonly used in desserts. It is important to always check the expiry date when using these products.
Condensed Milk
Condensed milk, also known as sweetened condensed milk, is made by removing water from cow’s milk and adding sugar. This process creates a thick and sweet product that can be stored for extended periods of time without refrigeration. Condensed milk is commonly used in making desserts and pastries. It is particularly popular in Russia, where it is known as “сгущёнка” or “sguschyonka,” which translates to “that is/which is thickened.”
Evaporated Milk
Evaporated milk, also referred to as dehydrated milk, is a refrigerated canned milk product where a significant amount of water is removed from fresh milk. The resulting milk is almost equivalent to fresh milk and can be reconstituted by adding a balanced amount of water. This makes evaporated milk a suitable alternative to fresh milk, especially in situations where refrigeration is not available. Evaporated milk is commonly used as a pouring cream alternative in desserts and is a staple in many households.
Comparison
The process of making condensed milk involves removing a large amount of liquid and adding sugar. Evaporated milk, on the other hand, involves evaporating half of the water from the cow’s milk, followed by homogenization, canning, and sterilization. Condensed milk is sweeter due to the addition of sugar, while evaporated milk closely resembles fresh milk. Condensed milk is used as a sweetener in desserts, while evaporated milk can be used as a creamer alternative.
In summary, both condensed and evaporated milk have longer shelf-lives compared to fresh milk, making them convenient for storage and use. However, it is important to always check the expiry date before using these products.
