What Are Edible Solvents?

What Are Edible Solvents?

Definition of Edible Solvents  

Edible solvents are solvents that are safe to use in the manufacturing of food and beverage products. They are also referred to as food-grade solvents. Solvents that are used during the production of foods and beverages are sometimes difficult to fully remove, and thus may be present in the final product in trace amounts. That is why it is important that these solvents are safe for consumption.  

Examples of Edible Solvents  

Some examples of edible solvents include: 

  • Acetone 
  • Benzyl alcohol 
  • Ethyl acetate 
  • Ethanol 
  • Hexane 
  • Isopropanol  
  • Methanol 

When Are Edible Solvents Used?  

One area where edible solvents are often employed is in the extraction of CBD from cannabis. CBD products have skyrocketed in popularity over the past several years due to their ability to alleviate a variety of physical and mental ailments.  

How exactly are edible solvents used in the extraction of CBD? First, the cannabis plant is soaked in the solvent to extract cannabinoids and terpenes. Then, the solution is refined and processed in order to remove the excess solvent and leave the CBD oil behind. This is a popular CBD extraction method because it is inexpensive and does not require any fancy equipment.   

The edible solvents used during this process can be classified into three general categories, as outlined by the FDA:  

  • Class 1 

Class 1 solvents are known or suspected carcinogens and may be toxic to the environment. They should not be used in CBD extractions. Examples of Class 1 solvents include benzene, carbon tetrachloride, and 1,1-dichloroethene.  

  • Class 2 

Class 2 solvents can cause toxicity, which may or may not be reversible. They are safe to use in edible products as long as they do not exceed a certain safety maximum, which varies depending on which solvent is being used and what product is being created (oil, inhalable product, etc.). Examples of Class 2 solvents include hexane, methanol, and toluene.  

  • Class 3 

Class 3 solvents do not possess any known health hazards for humans. This makes them perfect candidates for the extraction of CBD. Examples of Class 3 solvents include acetone, 1-butanol, ethanol, and pentane.  

Looking for Edible Solvents?   

Here at Extraction Grade Solvents, we offer several solvents that can be used in your CBD extractions, including Class 3 solvents such as acetone and 1-butanol. If you have any questions, our team is available to answer them and assist you in finding the best product for your needs. Please contact us today or call 800-563-1305!