Butylated Hydroxytoluene
Also known as: E321, BHT, 2‚6-Ditertiary-butyl-p-cresol, bht added to preserve freshness
BHT is FDA-permitted (21 CFR 172.115) but has been the subject of substantial toxicological debate. EFSA's 2012 re-evaluation set an ADI of 0.25 mg/kg bw/day, noting that children in some EU countries (Finland, Netherlands) may exceed this at the 95th percentile.
What it is
Butylated hydroxytoluene (BHT), a synthetic phenolic antioxidant used to prevent fat oxidation.
Antioxidant; prevents rancidity in fats and oils.
Why it's flagged
- Tumor-promoting in animal models
- Children in some EU countries exceed ADI at 95th percentile (EFSA 2012)
- Endocrine effects at high doses (thyroid, reproduction)
- Consumer-driven removal from many products
What regulators actually say
"Butylated hydroxytoluene (BHT)... may be safely used in food, alone or in combination with butylated hydroxyanisole (BHA) and/or with propyl gallate as follows: Total content of antioxidants is not over 0.02 percent of the fat or oil content..."
"Based on the NOAEL of 25 mg/kg bw/day and an uncertainty factor of 100, the Panel derived an ADI of 0.25 mg/kg bw/day. The Panel noted that exposure of children to BHT from its use as food additive... is exceeded for some European countries (Finland, The Netherlands) at the 95th percentile."
Regulatory status
United States — FDA
Permitted under 21 CFR 172.115 with use-level limits
European Union — EFSA
Authorized as E321; ADI 0.25 mg/kg bw/day (EFSA 2012)
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