Butylated hydroxyanisole BHA
Learn what Butylated hydroxyanisole BHA (E320) is, why it's added to food, whether it's safe, and which products contain it.
Low concernWhat is Butylated hydroxyanisole BHA?
A synthetic antioxidant food additive used to prevent fats from rancidifying. It is used individually or in combination with other butylated or galated compounds (E 310 – 312) in various animal or vegetable fats, as well as in pastry mixes, snacks, instant soups and broths, sauces, processed fruits, prepared cereals, dietary supplements, spices, meat products, dehydrated potatoes, flavors, and milk powder for vending machines.
Why is Butylated hydroxyanisole BHA added to food?
Butylated hydroxyanisole BHA (E320) is a antioxidant commonly found in: Pastry mixes, snacks, super instant foods.
Permitted quantity: The acceptable daily intake for human consumption is up to 0.2 mg/kg body weight, a very small dose that can easily be exceeded.
Is Butylated hydroxyanisole BHA safe?
Low concern
Allergic reactions, cell damage (including at the DNA level), triggering of gastric tumor processes.
Is Butylated hydroxyanisole BHA banned anywhere?
✓ Not currently banned in the EU or known to be restricted in other countries.
Is Butylated hydroxyanisole BHA okay for kids?
Not allowed in foods for infants and young children.
Common foods that contain Butylated hydroxyanisole BHA
- Pastry mixes
- snacks
- super instant foods
See the full list of foods that contain Butylated hydroxyanisole BHA →
How to spot Butylated hydroxyanisole BHA on labels
Look for any of these names in the ingredients list:
- E320
- Butylated hydroxyanisole BHA
Common misspellings to watch for:
- butylated hydroxyanisole bha
- butylated hydroxyanisole bhd
- butylated hydroxyani$ole bha
- butylated hydroxyanlsole bha
- butylated hydroxydnisole bha
- butyldted hydroxyanisole bha
Better alternatives
• May cause allergic reactions in some individuals, including skin irritations. • Excessive consumption can have toxic effects on the liver and kidneys. • Some studies suggest a potential carcinogenic risk, especially with long-term consumption. • May disrupt hormonal balance and affect the endocrine system. • May cause gastrointestinal disturbances, such as nausea and abdominal discomfort.
Also known as
- butylated hydroxyanisole bha
- butylated hydroxyanisole bhd
- butylated hydroxyani$ole bha
- butylated hydroxyanlsole bha
- butylated hydroxydnisole bha
- butyldted hydroxyanisole bha
Scan products with BioBrief
Not sure if a product contains Butylated hydroxyanisole BHA? BioBrief scans the barcode and instantly shows you every additive in the ingredients list — including E320 — with a plain-language explanation.
Frequently asked questions about Butylated hydroxyanisole BHA
- Is Butylated hydroxyanisole BHA safe to eat?
- Allergic reactions, cell damage (including at the DNA level), triggering of gastric tumor processes.
- Is Butylated hydroxyanisole BHA banned anywhere?
- Butylated hydroxyanisole BHA is not currently banned in the EU or known to be restricted in other countries.
- Is Butylated hydroxyanisole BHA safe for children?
- Not allowed in foods for infants and young children.
- How do I spot Butylated hydroxyanisole BHA on a food label?
- Look for E320, Butylated hydroxyanisole BHA in the ingredients list. It may also appear as: butylated hydroxyanisole bha, butylated hydroxyanisole bhd, butylated hydroxyani$ole bha.
Ingredients change. Always check the actual product label before purchasing. Information on this page is for educational purposes only.