Evaporated Milk

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Common questions

Is Evaporated Milk healthy?

Evaporated Milk scores 75/100 on Scout's independent analysis of ingredients, additives, and lab results — a fair-to-good score — solid, with tradeoffs. Evaporated milk is a processed food that retains the nutritional benefits of milk, such as calcium and protein, and is fortified with Vitamin D3 to support bone health.

How processed is Evaporated Milk?

Evaporated Milk is NOVA Group 3: Processed Foods.

Which ingredients drive Evaporated Milk's score?

In Scout's ingredient-by-ingredient analysis, Milk, Vitamin D3 count in its favor; Carrageenan is flagged as an ingredient of concern. The full breakdown, with why each one matters, is in the Key ingredients section on this page.

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Evaporated Milk

Cardinal Cream
75 Good

Analysis updated July 2026 · How Scout scores

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At a glance

Beneficial ingredients 2
Harmful ingredients 1
Owned by Fitz's Bottling Company
Category Milk
Summary

Evaporated milk is a processed food that retains the nutritional benefits of milk, such as calcium and protein, and is fortified with Vitamin D3 to support bone health. However, it contains carrageenan, a controversial thickening agent that may cause digestive issues in some individuals. The presence of this additive and the processing level limit its overall health score.

Key ingredients 4

Milk
Good

Milk is a natural source of essential nutrients like calcium, protein, and vitamins. It is minimally processed in evaporated milk, retaining most of its nutritional benefits. The concentration process increases its shelf life without significant nutrient loss.

Risks

Lactose intolerance can cause digestive issues for some individuals consuming milk.

Benefits

Provides essential nutrients such as calcium and vitamin D, supporting bone health and overall nutrition.

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Vitamin D3
Good

Vitamin D3 is added to enhance the nutritional profile of evaporated milk, supporting bone health and immune function. It is crucial for calcium absorption and maintaining healthy bones. Fortification helps prevent deficiencies, especially in populations with limited sun exposure.

Benefits

Supports bone health and immune function by aiding calcium absorption.

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Dipotassium Phosphate
Neutral

Dipotassium phosphate is used as a stabilizer and emulsifier in food products. It helps maintain texture and consistency in evaporated milk. It is generally recognized as safe when consumed in typical food amounts.

Risks

Excessive consumption may lead to imbalances in phosphate levels, but this is unlikely in normal dietary use.

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Carrageenan
Bad

Carrageenan is a thickening agent derived from seaweed, used to improve texture in dairy products. It is controversial due to potential digestive issues in sensitive individuals. Some studies suggest it may cause inflammation or gastrointestinal discomfort.

Risks

May cause digestive issues or inflammation in sensitive individuals.

See more about Carrageenan →

Processing

Group 3 · Processed

Processed Foods

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