BHA Propyl Gallate With Citric Acid Added

This ingredient is a mixture of Butylated Hydroxyanisole (BHA), Propyl Gallate, and Citric Acid. BHA and Propyl Gallate are synthetic substances made to prevent spoilage. Citric acid is a natural acid found in citrus fruits, often produced through fermentation.

This combination is primarily used as a preservative to keep fats and oils in food from going bad (rancid). BHA and Propyl Gallate act as antioxidants, and citric acid helps make them more effective. It is often added to foods high in fat, such as processed meats, baked goods, and snack foods.

Butylated Hydroxyanisole (BHA) and Propyl Gallate are approved food additives by the FDA. Citric acid is Generally Recognized As Safe (GRAS) by the FDA. The Joint FAO/WHO Expert Committee on Food Additives (JECFA) has evaluated BHA and Propyl Gallate and set acceptable daily intakes. JECFA has also evaluated citric acid and did not set a numeric limit. In 2023, the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) classified BHA as possibly carcinogenic to humans (Group 2B), while JECFA maintained its existing acceptable daily intake.