The Lab
Specimen No. 0075
AvoidSyntheticfood additivepreservative

TBHQ (Tertiary Butylhydroquinone)

tbhq · tertiary butylhydroquinone · tert-butylhydroquinone

Petroleum-derived preservative used in fast food oils and packaged snacks. Animal studies link it to vision disturbances, tumor promotion, and immune system effects.

medium confidence
Researched April 18, 2026
TBHQ (Tertiary Butylhydroquinone) molecular structure
Specimen 0075TBHQ (Tertiary Butylhydroquinone)

Concerns

  • Animal studies show vision disturbance and liver enlargement at high doses
  • Possible tumor promoter in rodent studies
  • May enhance allergic sensitization [inference from animal studies]
  • EU and WHO set an acceptable daily intake — best minimized

Regulatory flags

  • ⚑Not permitted in food in EU, Japan, Australia
  • ⚑FDA allows max 0.02% of total fat content

Commonly found in

Fast food frying oilCrackersMicrowave popcornFrozen fishChips

Last researched: April 18, 2026

Research disclaimer: This rating is based on available peer-reviewed research and regulatory assessments at the time of publication. It is not medical advice. Consult a qualified professional for personal health or skin concerns.

Check another ingredient

Search our database of scored cosmetic, food, and household ingredients — or scan a full product label.

Open the Ingredient Lab