Ingredient

Ethanol

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Source
Not animal-derived
Allergen
No
Role in food
Ethanol is used as a solvent for flavors and colors, and as a preservative …

What it is

Ethanol is a clear, colorless liquid with a distinct odor, commonly known as alcohol. It is produced through the fermentation of sugars by yeast, a process used for centuries to make alcoholic beverages. Industrially, it can also be synthesized from petroleum-based chemicals.

Why it's used

Ethanol is used as a solvent for flavors and colors, and as a preservative to extend shelf life in some food products. It can also act as a carrier for certain ingredients. It is frequently found in baked goods, confectionery, and some beverages.

Health notes

Ethanol is generally recognized as safe (GRAS) by the FDA when used as a food ingredient. In alcoholic beverages, it is a psychoactive substance with well-documented health risks associated with excessive consumption. International bodies like JECFA have evaluated ethanol, and its use in food is regulated. Evidence regarding potential health effects from the small amounts used as a food ingredient is mixed and debated.

Allergen info

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

Products containing Ethanol

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WADAKAN AOSHISO Wadakan Aoshiso, Dressing Salad Dressing & Mayonnaise 84kcal 2Protein 0Fat 16Carbs POZUELO Panettone With Fruit And Raisins Breads & Buns High in saturated fat — 35% DV per serving High in cholesterol — 25% DV per serving 375kcal 6.2Protein 17.5Fat 48.8Carbs CICI Mixed Fruit Jelly Jam, Jelly & Fruit Spreads 65kcal 0Protein 0Fat 16Carbs DONG-A PHARM Dong-A Pharm, Bacchus-X Plus Ginseng Energy Drink Energy, Protein & Muscle Recovery Drinks 61kcal —Protein 0Fat 15.2Carbs THE SAUCY FISH CO Amazing On Salmon Fillet Fish & Seafood High in cholesterol — 21% DV per serving 190kcal 17.1Protein 11.4Fat 5Carbs Chocolate Flavored Candies, Peanuts, Raisins And Almonds Mountain Trail Mix, Chocolate LIDL Chocolate Flavored Candies, Peanuts, Raisins And Almonds Mountain Trail Mix, Chocolate Popcorn, Peanuts, Seeds & Related Snacks 500kcal 13.3Protein 30Fat 50Carbs LIDL Raisins, Peanuts, Chocolate Flavored Candies, Almonds, Cashews Trail Mix Popcorn, Peanuts, Seeds & Related Snacks 465kcal 11.6Protein 25.6Fat 53.5Carbs Topco Associates, Inc. Clear Value, Candy Corn Candy 375kcal 2.5Protein 0Fat 92.5Carbs Topco Associates, Inc. Clear Value, Chocolate Bridge Mix Popcorn, Peanuts, Seeds & Related Snacks High in saturated fat — 25% DV per serving 500kcal 7.5Protein 25Fat 65Carbs Golden Beer Battered White Meat Chicken Strip Shaped Patties With Mashed Potatoes And Mixed Vegetables - Includes A Chocolate Brownie, Beer Battered Chicken Campbell Soup Company Golden Beer Battered White Meat Chicken Strip Shaped Patties With Mashed Potatoes And Mixed Vegetables - Includes A Chocolate Brownie, Beer Battered Chicken Frozen Dinners & Entrees High in sodium — 64% DV per serving High in saturated fat — 40% DV per serving High in cholesterol — 29% DV per serving 187kcal 6.8Protein 9.2Fat 17.8Carbs Kraft Heinz Foods Company Cinnamon Nachos Dessert Kit Baking Decorations & Dessert Toppings 419kcal 3.2Protein 12.9Fat 71.0Carbs The J.M. Smucker Company Quick Bread & Muffin Mix, Chocolate Chip Swirl Bread & Muffin Mixes 400kcal 2.9Protein 10Fat 77.1Carbs
Sugar (102 products) Salt (78 products) Water (76 products) Corn Syrup (59 products) Soy Lecithin (45 products) Natural Flavors (43 products) Citric Acid (37 products) Honey (36 products) Milk (36 products) Wheat Flour (32 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.