Super source
Energy
275 kcal · 14% DV target
A thick, syrupy dairy concentrate produced by evaporating water from milk and adding sugar, serving as a shelf-stable staple for desserts and beverages with a dense caloric profile.
Condensed milk is a dairy product that provides a concentrated source of calcium, which is essential for bone, teeth, and muscle health .67
Because the production process involves removing water and typically adding sugar, this ingredient is a significant source of added sugars and saturated fats, which are key nutrients of concern for overconsumption in national dietary guidelines .6
While dairy consumption is strongly linked to a decreased risk of colorectal cancer, some evidence suggests that high intake of whole-milk dairy products may be associated with an increased risk of prostate cancer mortality .7
Although condensed milk is a processed dairy product, large systematic reviews indicate that whole-milk dairy foods are not generally associated with increased cardiometabolic risk in children or adults .56
Petal shape shows the nine FoodCompass domains, including nutrient density, processing, satiety, fats, and phytochemicals.
275 kcal · 14% DV target
7.43 g · 15% DV target
39.7 g · 14% DV target
43.4 g · 87% DV target
5.27 g · 26% DV target
Not a benefit — best kept low
83.2 μg · 9% DV target
Seasonality has not been estimated for this ingredient yet.
Unopened cans are highly shelf-stable
Transfer to a sealed container after opening
Dairy production has significant greenhouse gas emissions, though concentration reduces transport weight relative to fresh milk.
Condensed milk was originally developed in the mid-19th century as a solution to milk-borne illnesses and spoilage, becoming a vital field ration during the American Civil War.