The Discontinuation of Carnation's Vegan Condensed Milk
For many years, Nestlé's Carnation Vegan Condensed Milk Alternative was a reliable and widely available option for dairy-free baking and desserts. Made with a base of oats and rice, it offered a relatively neutral flavor profile that wouldn't overpower recipes like fudge, cheesecake, or pies. However, much to the dismay of its loyal customers, Nestlé formally announced in late 2024 that the product would no longer be available. The reason given for the discontinuation was insufficient demand, which led to the product being 'delisted' from shelves. Social media was filled with disappointed users who relied on the product for their plant-based cooking and small businesses. The move highlighted the precarious nature of some mainstream vegan products and the need for consumers to seek out alternative solutions.
Why the Carnation Product was So Popular
- Neutral Flavor: Unlike many competitors that use a coconut base, the oat and rice blend offered a less pronounced, more classic condensed milk taste.
- Wide Availability: For a time, it was easily accessible in major supermarket chains across the UK, making it convenient for shoppers.
- Reputation: As a trusted brand, Carnation's entry into the vegan market gave customers confidence in the product's quality.
Finding Store-Bought Vegan Condensed Milk Alternatives
While the Carnation product is gone, the market is far from empty. There are several excellent alternatives that can be purchased in health food stores, international markets, and online. The most common plant-based condensed milks are coconut-based, though some specialty options are also available.
Notable Brands Still on the Market
- Nature's Charm: A well-regarded vegan brand that offers sweetened condensed milk made from coconut and, more recently, oats. Their coconut-based version is widely available and performs reliably in many recipes, though it imparts a distinct coconut flavor. It can often be found in health food stores or online from retailers like Amazon.
- Biona Organic: This brand produces a sweetened condensed coconut milk that is a reliable choice for bakers who don't mind a coconut flavor. It's available from various online retailers and health food stores.
- Jus' Amazin: An Indian brand that makes a dairy-free condensed almond milk, offering a different flavor profile from the common coconut versions.
- Mementa: Offers a range of organic condensed coconut milk products, including flavored options, for those who want to get creative with their desserts.
Comparison Table: Vegan Condensed Milk Options
| Option | Base Ingredients | Availability | Flavor Profile | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Carnation | Oat and Rice | Discontinued | Neutral | Widely available when produced | No longer available |
| Nature's Charm | Coconut or Oat | Online, Specialty Stores | Coconut (most common), Oat | Excellent performance, trusted vegan brand | Coconut flavor can be strong, less widespread than Carnation was |
| Biona Organic | Coconut | Online, Health Food Stores | Coconut | Organic option, good texture | Distinct coconut flavor |
| Homemade Coconut | Coconut Milk, Sugar | At home | Coconut | Control ingredients, cost-effective | Takes time to prepare, distinct coconut flavor |
| Homemade Cashew | Cashews, Water, Sugar | At home | Neutral, Mild | Neutral flavor, creamy texture | Requires a good blender, more prep time |
Making Your Own Vegan Condensed Milk at Home
For those who prefer a more hands-on approach or can't find a suitable store-bought option, making your own vegan condensed milk is surprisingly straightforward and can be customized to your taste. The basic process involves simmering a plant-based milk with a sweetener until it reduces and thickens to the desired consistency.
Popular Homemade Recipes
- Coconut Milk Based: The most common method uses full-fat coconut milk and granulated sugar, simmered on the stove for about 30–45 minutes. It develops a rich, creamy texture and a sweet flavor with a coconut note. This is a perfect alternative for recipes where the coconut flavor is welcome, such as coconut macaroons or fudge.
- Cashew Based: For a more neutral, dairy-like flavor, a cashew-based recipe is ideal. Soaking raw cashews and then blending them with water and a sweetener creates a rich base that thickens beautifully when cooked. This method is great for desserts like pumpkin pie where you don't want a strong coconut taste.
- Oat Milk Based: Using oat milk and a thickening agent like cornstarch is another option for creating a neutral-flavored condensed milk substitute. While it can be slightly less creamy than coconut or cashew versions, it works well for many recipes and is a simple alternative.
Recent Recalls and Product Safety Concerns
It is important to distinguish the discontinuation of the Carnation product from recent safety recalls involving other plant-based milks. In July 2024, certain refrigerated plant-based beverages from brands like Silk and Great Value were recalled in Canada due to Listeria concerns. This recall was not related to the production of vegan condensed milk, but rather to specific refrigerated milk carton products and was part of a separate, contained incident. Some earlier recalls also involved undeclared allergens in coconut products, highlighting the importance of always checking product labels if you have a food allergy.
Conclusion: The Final Verdict on Vegan Condensed Milk
While the market saw a notable loss with the discontinuation of Carnation's popular oat and rice-based product, vegan condensed milk has not been discontinued as a category. The decision was specific to the Carnation brand, citing low sales as the reason for its removal. For bakers and dessert-lovers, the options are still plentiful. A range of commercial alternatives from brands like Nature's Charm and Biona remain readily available, mostly utilizing a coconut base. Furthermore, making homemade vegan condensed milk is an accessible and customizable solution for anyone willing to spend a little time in the kitchen. Whether you opt for a store-bought substitute or a DIY recipe, you can continue to enjoy your favorite dairy-free sweet treats. For a great homemade recipe, check out this guide from Eight Forest Lane.
The Final Word
With a mix of readily available commercial products and simple homemade methods, the dairy-free dessert world is still thriving despite the loss of one brand. By exploring different brands and recipes, you can find the perfect vegan condensed milk for your needs.
