Food-grade ethanol is a clear, colorless type of ethyl alcohol that humans can safely consume or apply to the skin. It occurs naturally as part of the plant fermentation process and can also be made commercially in the lab through the hydration of ethylene.

Ethanol/ethyl alcohol and grain alcohol are some other names you may see used for food-grade ethanol. The product is part of many commercial applications:

• Food production: Food-grade ethanol enhances flavor extracts and some kinds of vinegar, helps distribute food coloring evenly in cakes and candies, and for extracting hemp and cannabis.
• Alcoholic beverages: Food-grade ethanol is the main ingredient in adult beverages such as beer, brandy, and wine.
• Beauty products: Food-grade ethanol is an effective astringent in skin cleansers and is used as a preservative in lotions to keep them from separating. It makes hairspray more effective by helping the product cling to the hair.
• Hand sanitizer and cleaning products: Food-grade ethanol dissolves easily in water and kills many bacteria and viruses.