What type of alcohol do alcoholic beverages intended for human consumption primarily contain?

Ethanol is the type of alcohol primarily found in alcoholic beverages intended for human consumption. It is the only form of alcohol that is safe for direct consumption, which is why it is used in the production of drinks such as beer, wine, and spirits. Ethanol is metabolized by the body and can be safely absorbed, unlike isopropanol and methanol, which are toxic and can cause serious harm or death if ingested.

In the context of beverage production, ethanol provides the desired intoxicating effects while being the substance that most cultures have turned to for recreational consumption. It is important to distinguish it from other types of alcohol that are used for industrial purposes, such as isopropanol, commonly used as a disinfectant, and methanol, which is used in antifreeze and as a solvent but poses significant health risks if consumed. Ethanol's safety profile is what makes it the primary alcohol in food and drink applications.