Ingredient

BHT And Citric Acid To Improve Stability

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Source
Not animal-derived
Allergen
No
Role in food
BHT and citric acid are added to foods to prevent oxidation, which can cause …

What it is

BHT (butylated hydroxytoluene) is a synthetic antioxidant. Citric acid is a weak organic acid found naturally in citrus fruits, but is often produced industrially through fermentation. They are often used together to prevent spoilage and maintain the quality of food products.

Why it's used

BHT and citric acid are added to foods to prevent oxidation, which can cause fats and oils to go rancid and flavors to change. They help extend shelf life and maintain the appearance and taste of products like cereals, snack foods, and processed meats. Citric acid also adds a tart flavor.

Health notes

BHT is approved by the FDA as a food additive and is also Generally Recognized As Safe (GRAS) for specific uses. Citric acid is also GRAS. Both substances have been evaluated by international bodies like JECFA and EFSA. While generally considered safe at typical consumption levels, some studies have raised questions about the long-term effects of BHT, though regulatory bodies have not identified significant risks for the general population based on current evidence.

Allergen info

Neither BHT nor citric acid are derived from or are among the FDA's nine major allergens. They do not contain gluten.

Products containing BHT And Citric Acid To Improve Stability

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Ajinomoto USA Inc. Miso Ramen, Miso All Noodles High in sodium — 79% DV per serving 154kcal 6.0Protein 3.4Fat 24.1Carbs M.C.I. Foods, Inc. Shredded Beef Salsa Roja Tamale Sandwiches/Filled Rolls/Wraps High in sodium — 28% DV per serving 193kcal 7.6Protein 8.8Fat 20.1Carbs M.C.I. Foods, Inc. Chicken Salsa Verde Tamale Sandwiches/Filled Rolls/Wraps High in sodium — 32% DV per serving High in saturated fat — 21% DV per serving 180kcal 6.9Protein 8.2Fat 19.4Carbs M.C.I. Foods, Inc. Two Cheese & Green Chile Tamales - Wrapped in an Eco-Friendly Paper Husk Sandwiches/Filled Rolls/Wraps High in sodium — 37% DV per serving High in saturated fat — 46% DV per serving High in added sugars — 30% DV per serving 241kcal 9.0Protein 13.6Fat 20.6Carbs M.C.I. Foods, Inc. Shredded Pork Salsa Roja Tamale Wrapped in an Eco-Friendly Paper Husk BulkPack Sandwiches/Filled Rolls/Wraps High in sodium — 26% DV per serving 188kcal 7.0Protein 9.5Fat 18.4Carbs M.C.I. Foods, Inc. Shredded Pork Salsa Roja Tamale Sandwiches/Filled Rolls/Wraps High in sodium — 21% DV per serving 187kcal 7.2Protein 8.3Fat 20.1Carbs M.C.I. Foods, Inc. Shredded Pork Salsa Roja Tamale Sandwiches/Filled Rolls/Wraps High in sodium — 32% DV per serving 188kcal 7.0Protein 9.5Fat 18.4Carbs M.C.I. Foods, Inc. Shredded Beef Salsa Roja Tamale Sandwiches/Filled Rolls/Wraps High in sodium — 28% DV per serving 193kcal 7.6Protein 8.8Fat 20.1Carbs M.C.I. Foods, Inc. Shredded Beef Salsa Roja Tamale Sandwiches/Filled Rolls/Wraps High in sodium — 21% DV per serving 193kcal 7.5Protein 8.8Fat 20.1Carbs M.C.I. Foods, Inc. Shredded Beef Salsa Roja Tamale Sandwiches/Filled Rolls/Wraps High in sodium — 35% DV per serving High in saturated fat — 24% DV per serving 193kcal 7.6Protein 8.8Fat 20.1Carbs M.C.I. Foods, Inc. Chicken Salsa Verde Tamale Sandwiches/Filled Rolls/Wraps High in sodium — 26% DV per serving 180kcal 6.9Protein 8.2Fat 19.4Carbs M.C.I. Foods, Inc. Chicken Salsa Verde Tamale Sandwiches/Filled Rolls/Wraps 180kcal 6.9Protein 8.2Fat 19.4Carbs

Last updated: September 28, 2026

Note: This site presents label data from USDA FoodData Central for general information. It is not medical advice. Check the package label; formulations change.