E321 BHT (Butylated Hydroxytoluene)

E321AntioxidantsOrigin: Lab-made

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The short answer

BHT (E321) is a synthetic preservative in cereal and snacks. It's approved, but evidence on long-term effects is mixed, and many brands have dropped it.

55/100

Use in moderation

Safe in small amounts; may bother some people or raise blood sugar.

E-numberE321

Comes fromLab-made

What it doesAntioxidants

Glycemic index—

Daily limit0.25 mg/kg

Also calledBHT, Butylated hydroxytoluene

Rules by country

🇺🇸 US FDAApproved

🇪🇺 European UnionApproved with limits

🇨🇦 Health CanadaApproved with limits

CaliforniaNo extra rules

GRAS in the US. The EU set a low daily limit of 0.25 mg per kg of body weight in 2012.

How much is too much? (Acceptable Daily Intake)

Body weight: 70 kg

18 mgper day is the safe upper limit

Based on 0.25 mg per kg of body weight (EFSA / JECFA). A 20 kg (44 lb) child: 5.0 mg a day.

What is it?

BHT is a close cousin of BHA. It stops fats from oxidizing and is also used in rubber, plastics and cosmetics.

Where it comes from: A lab-made antioxidant derived from petroleum chemicals.

Why it’s in food

Keeps cereal fresh
Preserves frying oils
Protects flavor in snacks

Often found in

Breakfast cerealsSnack foodsChewing gumShortening

Also listed as: BHT, Butylated hydroxytoluene, Dibutylhydroxytoluene

Health & gut impact

Long-term safetyUnder study

Animal studies are mixed, showing both harm and protection at different doses.

EFSA Journal 10(3):2588 (2012)

What can I use instead?

Mixed tocopherols (vitamin E)

Ratio: Similar amounts

Best for: Cereals and oils

More antioxidants:

Ascorbic Acid (Vitamin C) E300Ascorbic acid (E300) is plain vitamin C. It keeps food from browning and is one of the safest additives there is.Generally safe BHA (Butylated Hydroxyanisole) E320BHA (E320) is a synthetic preservative that keeps fats fresh. The US National Toxicology Program lists it as "reasonably anticipated to be a human carcinogen."Best to avoid

Common questions

Is BHT safe?

Use in moderation (55/100). GRAS in the US. The EU set a low daily limit of 0.25 mg per kg of body weight in 2012.

Is BHT vegan?

Yes.

Is BHT gluten-free?