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If you've ever wondered why your teh tarik or MILO tastes so good when you buy it outside, it's likely because of the condensed milk and evaporated milk used
For Malaysians, both of these forms of milk have become a staple in our everyday diet, whether or not we even realise it.
But for most of us, we don't even know what condensed milk and evaporate milk are made of.
What is condensed milk made of?
Sweetened condensed milk is essentially cow's milk that has had most of its water removed and a large amount of sugar added.
The milk concentration process creates a richer texture, but the sugar is what gives condensed milk its signature sweetness and thick, sticky consistency. It also helps preserve the product by reducing the amount of water available for microorganisms to grow.
A typical can of condensed milk contains:
- Milk or milk solids
- Sugar
- Sometimes added ingredients such as stabilisers or emulsifiers
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Because of its high sugar content, condensed milk is much sweeter and thicker than regular milk. This is why it is commonly used in desserts, drinks and sweet treats.
What is evaporated milk made of?
Evaporated milk is made in a similar way to condensed milk, but without the added sugar.
Regular milk is heated until around 60% of its water content evaporates, leaving behind a thicker, creamier milk with a slightly richer flavour.
A can of evaporated milk usually contains:
- Milk
- Milk solids
- Sometimes stabilisers and added vitamins
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Since it is not sweetened, evaporated milk is much more versatile in cooking. It can be used in both sweet and savoury recipes, adding creaminess without changing the flavour too much.
Fun fact: In Malaysia, evaporated milk is not only used in drinks (think Kopi-C), but also commonly added to carbonara and buttermilk chicken sauce, creating a richer texture without using heavy cream.
Is condensed milk and evaporated milk healthy to drink?
Although condensed milk and evaporated milk are both made from cow's milk, they are not nutritionally the same as drinking a glass of fresh milk.
While sweetened condensed milk still contains nutrients from milk, such as calcium and protein, it also contains a significant amount of added sugar. A small serving can contribute a large amount of your daily sugar intake.
Evaporated milk is unsweetened, but still more calorie‑dense than fresh milk because the nutrients are concentrated. It contains more protein, fat, and lactose per spoonful compared to regular milk.
Both products can fit into a balanced diet if used sparingly, but sweetened condensed milk should be treated as a sugary indulgence, while evaporated milk is a higher‑calorie dairy option best used in moderation rather than as a one‑for‑one replacement for fresh milk.
