Ingredient

Bourbon Alcohol

Auto-generated content. This description was generated automatically and is pending editorial review. Inaccuracies are possible. Found a mistake? Contact us.

Source
Not animal-derived
Allergen
No
Role in food
Bourbon is often used as a flavoring ingredient in foods, adding a distinct sweet, …

What it is

Bourbon is a type of American whiskey, a distilled spirit made primarily from corn. It must be made in the United States and aged in new, charred oak barrels. The aging process gives bourbon its characteristic color and flavor.

Why it's used

Bourbon is often used as a flavoring ingredient in foods, adding a distinct sweet, woody, and slightly smoky taste. It is commonly found in baked goods like cakes and cupcakes, as well as in sauces, marinades, and even some candies.

Health notes

The FDA lists alcohol (ethanol) as Generally Recognized As Safe (GRAS) for use as a flavoring agent. However, excessive alcohol consumption is linked to numerous health problems. Regulatory bodies like JECFA have evaluated alcohol, but have not set a numeric acceptable daily intake. The health effects of bourbon in food are generally considered negligible due to the small amounts typically used.

Allergen info

Bourbon is not derived from any of the 9 FDA major allergens. It does not contain gluten.

Products containing Bourbon Alcohol

Compare products →

Last updated: September 28, 2026

Note: This site presents label data from USDA FoodData Central for general information. It is not medical advice. Check the package label; formulations change.