BHT (Butylated Hydroxytoluene)

Medium Concern

Preservative / Antioxidant

Also known as

bhtbutylated hydroxytoluenee321

The concern

EWG rates BHT with high concern for cancer. Animal studies show tumour promotion. NIH National Toxicology Program lists it as a possible carcinogen; causes liver and thyroid effects in animals.

Read the source: EWG / NIH NTP

What to look for on labels

This ingredient may appear under any of the following names or codes on product labels:

BHT (Butylated Hydroxytoluene)
bht
butylated hydroxytoluene
e321

Learn more

Read the full evidence directly from the authoritative source.

View source: EWG / NIH NTP

Other preservative / antioxidants to know about

BHA (Butylated Hydroxyanisole)

HIGH

IARC Group 2B possible carcinogen.

Propyl Gallate

MEDIUM

Antioxidant preservative suspected of endocrine disruption.

Data sourced from IARC, FDA, EFSA, WHO and EWG public data. For informational purposes only. This does not constitute medical or legal advice.

← Back to Ingredient Safety Database