Ethanol

Ethanol, commonly known as ethyl alcohol, is an organic molecule belonging to the alcohol family. Naturally produced through the fermentation of sugars, it is widely used in the pharmaceutical, cosmetic and food industries. Its ability to bind to both hydrophilic and lipophilic compounds makes it a versatile and effective solvent. In the field of food supplements, ethanol is primarily used as an extraction solvent. It enables the isolation and concentration of active compounds from certain plants — such as polyphenols, alkaloids and flavonoids — that would not be accessible through simple aqueous maceration. The resulting extracts generally contain a higher and more standardised concentration of molecules of interest. Ethanol is also used as a preservative agent, helping to limit microbial growth in liquid formulations. Residual levels in finished products are typically very low and regulated by applicable European legislation.