BHT (Butylated Hydroxytoluene)
The question

Is BHT (Butylated Hydroxytoluene) safe in processed foods?

AvoidProcessed foods

Synthetic antioxidant used to extend shelf life in cosmetics and food. Linked to hormone disruption and potential carcinogenicity.

What the research flags

  • Possible endocrine disruptor — estrogenic activity in animal studies
  • Liver enzyme induction at high doses
  • Bioaccumulates in fatty tissue
  • Some evidence of carcinogenicity [inference]

Regulatory
EU restricts in cosmetics — max 0.8%

Other processed foods ingredients on file

Sources & references

  1. [1]
    DatabaseIngredient database — 700372-BHT
  2. [2]
    Peer-reviewedPubMed / NCBI — pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov · ref 3510937
  3. [3]
    Peer-reviewedPubMed / NCBI — Butylated-hydroxytoluene

Research disclaimer: Ratings reflect peer-reviewed research and regulatory assessments available at the time of publication, not the dose or formulation of any specific processed foods product. This is not medical advice.