Ethyl Alcohol

Ethyl alcohol, also known as ethanol, is a clear, colorless liquid with a characteristic odor. It is produced through the fermentation of sugars by yeast, a process used for centuries to make alcoholic beverages. It can also be synthesized from ethylene, a petrochemical.

Ethyl alcohol is used in food as a solvent for flavors and colors, and as a preservative. It can also contribute to the texture and shelf-life of baked goods and confectionery. It is found in a wide variety of processed foods, including cakes, candies, and some ready-to-eat meals.

In the US, ethyl alcohol used as a food ingredient is generally recognized as safe (GRAS) by the FDA. When consumed in moderate amounts as part of food, it is not typically associated with adverse health effects. International bodies like JECFA have evaluated ethyl alcohol, but they have not set a numeric acceptable daily intake (ADI). High levels of alcohol consumption are linked to numerous health problems, but this is distinct from its use as a food ingredient.