Butterscotch
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What it is
Butterscotch is a type of confectionery flavored with brown sugar and butter. The name comes from 'butter' and 'scotch', an old word for 'fried' or 'scorched'. It is typically made by heating butter and brown sugar together until they caramelize.
Why it's used
Butterscotch is primarily used as a flavoring agent in a wide variety of foods. Manufacturers add it to impart a rich, sweet, and slightly caramelized taste. It is commonly found in ice cream, candies, baked goods, and dessert toppings.
Health notes
Butterscotch flavoring itself is generally recognized as safe (GRAS) by the FDA when used as a food ingredient. It is primarily composed of sugar and fat, and like all sugars, excessive consumption can contribute to health issues. Regulatory bodies like JECFA and EFSA have evaluated many flavoring substances, but specific evaluations for 'butterscotch flavoring' as a distinct entity are not widely publicized. Evidence does not suggest adverse health effects from typical consumption levels.
Allergen info
Butterscotch flavoring itself is not a major allergen. However, the butter used in its traditional preparation is derived from milk, which is one of the nine major allergens.