1.8% Ethyl Alcohol

Ethyl alcohol, also known as ethanol, is a clear, colorless liquid with a distinct odor. It is produced through the fermentation of sugars by yeast. In food, it is often used as a solvent to extract flavors and aromas from natural sources, such as vanilla beans or spices.

Manufacturers use ethyl alcohol primarily as a solvent to create flavor extracts and essences. It helps to dissolve and carry the desired flavor compounds from ingredients like vanilla, almond, or spices into a liquid form. It is commonly found in baking extracts, flavorings, and some spice blends.

Ethyl alcohol is generally recognized as safe (GRAS) by the FDA for use as a food ingredient, primarily as a solvent for flavorings. When consumed in the small amounts typically found in food extracts, it is not expected to have significant health effects. JECFA has evaluated ethanol and established an acceptable daily intake. Excessive consumption of alcoholic beverages, which contain much higher levels of ethyl alcohol, is associated with numerous health risks.