Ingredient

Shortbread

Source
Animal-derived
Allergen
No
Role in food
Shortbread is primarily eaten as a biscuit or dessert. Its rich, buttery taste and …

What is Shortbread?

Shortbread is a traditional Scottish biscuit made from a high proportion of butter, giving it a crumbly texture and rich flavour. Its other key ingredients are sugar and flour. The dough is typically baked at a moderate temperature to achieve a pale golden colour.

Is Shortbread vegan?

No. Shortbread is animal-derived, so it is not vegan.

Is Shortbread gluten-free?

Shortbread contains cereals containing gluten (from the flour) and may contain milk if butter is not the only dairy ingredient.

What is Shortbread used for?

Shortbread is primarily eaten as a biscuit or dessert.

Is Shortbread safe?

Shortbread is a foodstuff, not a food additive, and therefore does not have an E-number or require authorisation on the Register of Food Additive Authorisations.

Why it's used

Shortbread is primarily eaten as a biscuit or dessert. Its rich, buttery taste and crumbly texture make it a popular choice on its own or as a component in other confectionery products, such as chocolate bars or dessert toppings.

Health notes

Shortbread is a foodstuff, not a food additive, and therefore does not have an E-number or require authorisation on the Register of Food Additive Authorisations. It is typically high in fat and sugar, and as per the Eatwell Guide, foods high in fat, salt, or sugar (HFSS) should be consumed in moderation. Government dietary advice recommends that free sugars should not exceed 5% of total dietary energy. The UK's HFSS regulations restrict the placement and promotional offers of such foods in retail environments.

Allergen info

Shortbread contains cereals containing gluten (from the flour) and may contain milk if butter is not the only dairy ingredient. These are among the 14 allergens that UK law requires to be emphasised on labels.

Foods that contain Shortbread

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Auto-generated content. This description was generated automatically and is pending editorial review. Inaccuracies are possible. Found a mistake? Contact us.

Last updated: 17 October 2026

Note: This site presents label data from Open Food Facts for general information. It is not medical advice. Check the package label; formulations change.