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E321Avoid

BHT (butylated hydroxytoluene)

Group: Antioxidants · in the book

Harm level4 of 5Better avoid

In plain words

BHT is a synthetic antioxidant related to BHA that protects fats from going rancid. You can find it in chewing gum, fats, cereals and snacks, and it is also used in packaging and cosmetics.

Where you find it: cereals, chewing gum, fats, snacks

Our recommendation

We recommend avoiding it in future, especially for children and pregnant women.

Possible risks and effects

  • Unclear long-term safety; liver and thyroid effects at high doses in animal studies.
  • Possible endocrine effects – evidence is uncertain.

For experts

The phenolic antioxidant 2,6-di-tert-butyl-4-methylphenol, permitted in the EU only in a limited number of categories with maximum levels. EFSA re-evaluated it in 2012 and set an ADI of 0.25 mg/kg body weight per day. IARC places it in Group 3 (not classifiable), but questions remain about long-term effects, including possible endocrine activity.

Check another E-number

More from this group

E320BHA (butylated hydroxyanisole)E319TBHQ (tert-butylhydroquinone)E310Propyl gallateE385Calcium disodium EDTAE300Ascorbic acid (vitamin C)E301Sodium ascorbateE304Ascorbyl palmitateE306Tocopherols (vitamin E)

This information is educational and based on EFSA assessments and available studies; it does not replace medical advice. With allergies, intolerances or illness, follow your doctor’s advice.