Cookie

A cookie is a small, flat, baked treat, typically made from flour, sugar, eggs, and fat. Recipes vary widely, often including leavening agents like baking soda or powder, and flavorings such as vanilla or chocolate. They are baked until crisp or chewy, depending on the ingredients and baking time.

Cookies are primarily consumed as a sweet snack or dessert. Manufacturers add them to a vast array of products for their taste, texture, and ability to complement other flavors, especially in baked goods, ice cream, and confectionery. They can also serve as a base or component in more complex desserts.

Cookies are generally recognized as safe (GRAS) by the FDA as a food ingredient. Their health impact is primarily related to their nutritional content, which is often high in sugar, refined carbohydrates, and fat, contributing to calorie intake. JECFA has evaluated many common cookie ingredients, such as sugar and flour, and established acceptable daily intakes. Evidence does not suggest adverse health effects from typical consumption of cookies themselves, but overconsumption of high-sugar, high-fat foods can contribute to health issues.