Is a fermented extract less harmful? (5)

I believe the answer is:

safer

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'extract less harmful?' is the definition.
I can't judge whether this definition defines the answer.

'is a fermented' is the wordplay.
'SAFER' is hidden in amongst the letters.
But, I am not sure how the hidden word is indicated.

Can you help me to learn more?

(Other definitions for safer that I've seen before include "more conservative" , "Fears (anag)" , "Not so hairy" , "Less adventurous" , "Less endangered" .)

I've seen this clue in The Times.

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