What ingredient may be added to condensed milk on grocery shelves?

Condensed milk is a thick, sweetened product that is made by removing most of the water content from milk and adding sugar. The addition of sugar serves as a preservative, prolonging shelf life and enhancing the flavor. Condensed milk is primarily used in desserts and beverages, providing a rich sweetness that is characteristic of many recipes.

While other ingredients like salt, corn syrup, and vanilla extract might be found in some specialty versions of sweetened condensed milk, the standard formulation includes sugar. This is essential to the defining qualities of condensed milk, both in taste and in its ability to remain stable on grocery shelves without refrigeration until opened. Understanding this base ingredient helps in recognizing the fundamental properties of condensed milk and its uses in culinary practices.