Evaporated milk

Evaporated milk, also known as dehydrated milk, is a type of milk product where approximately 60% of the water content has been removed. The process of creating evaporated milk involves exposing the milk to heat until a significant portion of the liquid evaporates. This results in a concentrated, nutrient-rich product that has a longer shelf life than regular milk.

History

The concept of evaporated milk was developed in the 19th century as a way to preserve milk without the need for refrigeration. The first patent for the process was granted to Gail Borden in 1856, who sought a way to provide safe, stable milk to urban populations and seafaring voyagers.

Production

The production of evaporated milk begins with the pasteurization of milk to eliminate any harmful bacteria. The pasteurized milk is then concentrated under reduced pressure to lower the boiling point and prevent the milk from scorching. The resulting product is then homogenized, packaged, and sterilized to ensure its safety and longevity.

Uses

Evaporated milk is used in a variety of cooking and baking applications. Its concentrated nature gives it a slightly caramelized flavor and a creamier texture than regular milk, making it ideal for use in desserts, sauces, and soups. It can also be reconstituted with water to be used as a substitute for fresh milk in recipes.

Nutritional Value

Due to the evaporation process, evaporated milk has a higher concentration of nutrients than regular milk. It is a good source of protein, calcium, and vitamin D. However, it also has a higher concentration of sugar and calories due to the caramelization during the evaporation process.

See Also

• Condensed milk
• Powdered milk
• Dairy product