Evaporated and Condensed Milk Line
An evaporated milk line where multi-effect evaporation and in-can sterilisation produce the caramelised colour and viscosity that define the product.
Key Specifications
| Capacity | 2,000 - 30,000 L per hour feed |
|---|---|
| Solids | Evaporated 7.5-9.5 percent fat, condensed 28 percent total solids |
| Evaporator | 3-5 effect falling film |
| Sterilisation | In-can 118 degrees C for 15 minutes, or UHT plus aseptic |
| Sugar addition | Dry or liquid, before or after evaporation |
| Packaging | Tin can, tube, or aseptic bag |
| Shelf life | 12-24 months ambient |
In-can sterilisation creates the character
Evaporated milk gets its slight caramel colour and cooked flavour from in-can sterilisation at 118 degrees C. A UHT plus aseptic route produces a paler, fresher product that some markets reject, so the choice is a market decision, not an efficiency one.
Sugar timing affects viscosity
Adding sugar before evaporation increases viscosity and reduces heat transfer, so most plants add it as a dry blend after evaporation or as a concentrated syrup. Getting this wrong shows up as either a burnt evaporator or an unstable emulsion.
Homogenisation and stability
Evaporated milk is homogenised after evaporation at 200-250 bar to prevent fat separation during the long ambient storage. Skipping it produces a fat layer that shakes out but never fully redisperses.
Typical Applications
- Markets with limited cold chain — Ambient stable milk concentrate is a staple where refrigeration is not universal.
- Bakery and confectionery supply — Condensed milk is an ingredient for industrial users, sold in drums as well as cans.
- Coffee and tea creamers — Evaporated milk with adjusted fat is the base for many creamer formulations.
Frequently Asked Questions
In-can or aseptic?
In-can for traditional evaporated milk character and tin packaging; aseptic for bag-in-box or when a lighter colour is preferred.
What is the difference from sweetened condensed milk?
Sweetened condensed milk relies on high sugar for preservation and is not sterilised; evaporated milk is sterilised and unsweetened.
Can the line run both products?
Yes with a recipe change, though the sugar dosing system is specified separately.
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