Solvents

Solvents are used in the food industry to extract or dissolve other substances without changing their original functions. For example, acetone and hexane are used as solvents for fragrant oleoresins from spices, glycerol is used as a solvent for dyes and aromas, and food grade alcohol is also used as a solvent.

Some solvents are also used in the food industry for other purposes – e.g. as emulsifiers or stabilizers.

What specific solvents are used in the food industry?

In which foods can we find solvents?

  • alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages
  • chewing gums
  • spice
  • coffee (you might find our reviews of the best Tchibo coffee machines useful – who won in our comparison?)
  • tea

Are solvents in food safe for us?

A relatively large amount of solvents are used in the food industry. Most of them have not been shown to have any significant negative effects on human health and are used according to strict regulations that set their maximum amount. Therefore, no side effects should occur with normal consumption.

X