What Are BHA, BHT, and TBHQ?
BHA (Butylated Hydroxyanisole), BHT (Butylated Hydroxytoluene), and TBHQ (Tertiary Butylhydroquinone) are synthetic antioxidant preservatives derived from petroleum. They inhibit the oxidation of fats, preventing rancidity. All three were introduced into US food in the 1950s under GRAS designations that have never been formally re-reviewed.
BHA vs BHT vs TBHQ Key Differences
| Preservative | Chemical Name | US Status | EU Status | IARC Class |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| BHA | Butylated Hydroxyanisole | Permitted (GRAS) | Restricted to specific uses | Group 2B possible carcinogen |
| BHT | Butylated Hydroxytoluene | Permitted (GRAS) | Restricted to specific uses | Not classified under review |
| TBHQ | Tertiary Butylhydroquinone |