BHA (Butylated Hydroxyanisole) and BHT (Butylated Hydroxytoluene) Analysis

Butylated hydroxyanisole (BHA) and butylated hydroxytoluene (BHT) are closely related synthetic antioxidants used as preservatives in lipsticks and moisturizers, among other cosmetic products. They are also widely used in the food industry as food preservatives.

However, these two chemical compounds carry risks for human health and environmental hazards. First of all, it causes allergic reactions on the skin. The International Agency for Research on Cancer has classified butylated hydroxyanisole (BHA) as a possible human carcinogen. The European Commission on Endocrine Disorders has also listed this chemical compound as a Category 1 priority substance based on evidence that it interferes with hormone function.

Long-term exposure to high doses of butylated hydroxytoluene (BHT) has toxic properties in mice and rats, causing liver, thyroid and kidney problems, and affecting lung function and blood coagulation. In certain cases, this chemical compound acts as a tumorigenic.

In short, BHA is considered a human carcinogen, and both BHA and BHT promote tumor growth and impair blood coagulation. The use of these synthetic antioxidants is banned in countries such as Japan, Europe, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand. However, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in the USA is not in favor of imposing a ban on this issue. The responsibility for deciding which ingredients they choose to include in foods rests primarily with the manufacturers. It is recommended that consumers prefer natural and organic foods over processed foods as much as possible to avoid exposure to harmful food additives. On the other hand, as consumers become more conscious about health, manufacturers avoid using harmful additives, even if they are FDA-approved.

Butylated hydroxyyanisole (BHA) and butylated hydroxytoluene (BHT) prevent the oxidation of fats in food and are therefore used as preservatives. BHA is a white or pale yellow waxy solid with a slight pleasant odour. BHT is a white crystalline solid.

Our organization also provides BHA (butylated hydroxyanisole) and BHT (butylated hydroxytoluene) analysis services with its trained and expert staff and advanced technological equipment, among the numerous test, measurement, analysis and evaluation studies it provides for businesses in various sectors.