BHA (Butylated Hydroxyanisole)
Also known as: Butylated Hydroxyanisole, BHA, BUTYLMETHOXYPHENOL, BUTYL-4-METHOXYPHENOL, TERT-, BUTYLHYDROXYANISOLE, TERT-, BUTYL-4-HYDROXYANISOLE, TERT-, PHENOL, (1,1-DIMETHYLETHYL)-4-METHOXY-, PHENOL, TERT-BUTYL-4-METHOXY-, (1,1-DIMETHYLETHYL)-4-METHOXYPHENOL, TERT-BUTYL-4-HYDROXYANISOLE, TERT-BUTYL-4-METHOXYPHENOL, TERT-BUTYLHYDROXYANISOLE
Antioxidant / Preservative · E320
US-EU Regulatory Divergence
This additive has different regulatory status in the US and EU — what's permitted in one region may be restricted or banned in the other.
Regulatory Status
United States (FDA)
GRASFDA GRAS status. Used as a preservative to prevent fats from going rancid.
European Union (EFSA)
ApprovedApproved in EU with specific usage limits.
Safety Profile
The National Toxicology Program lists BHA as "reasonably anticipated to be a human carcinogen" yet it retains FDA GRAS status. Controversial.
Health Concerns
- • Classified as reasonably anticipated to be a human carcinogen (NTP)
- • Causes tumors in animal studies at high doses
- • Endocrine disruptor concerns
Commonly Found In
Sources: FDA Substances Added to Food, EFSA opinions, EU Regulation 1333/2008, IARC monographs
SafeCheck provides drug interaction information from FDA-approved product labeling (openFDA). This is for informational purposes only and is not medical advice. Always consult your healthcare provider before making medication decisions.