Ingredient

BHT Citric Acid

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Source

Not animal-derived

Allergen

Role in food

BHT is added to foods to prevent fats and oils from becoming rancid, which …

What it is

BHT (butylated hydroxytoluene) is a synthetic antioxidant. It is made from petroleum-based chemicals. Citric acid is a weak organic acid found naturally in citrus fruits, but the citric acid used in food is typically produced industrially through the fermentation of sugar by microorganisms.

Why it's used

BHT is added to foods to prevent fats and oils from becoming rancid, which helps extend shelf life. Citric acid is used to add a sour taste, act as a preservative, and help other antioxidants work better. They are often found together in processed foods like baked goods, cereals, and snack foods.

Health notes

BHT is Generally Recognized As Safe (GRAS) by the FDA for use as a food additive. Citric acid is also GRAS. Both have been evaluated by international bodies like JECFA and EFSA. While generally considered safe at typical consumption levels, some studies have raised questions about BHT's potential effects, though evidence is mixed and often based on high doses not representative of human intake.

Allergen info

Neither BHT nor citric acid are derived from any of the 9 FDA major allergens. They do not contain gluten.

Products containing BHT Citric Acid

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Schwan's Mama Rosa's, LLC Pepperoni Pizza Pizza High in sodium — 42% DV per serving High in saturated fat — 40% DV per serving 248kcal 12.1Protein 12.8Fat 26.2Carbs Reynaldo's Mexican Food Manufacturer Inc. Hand Made Bean & Cheese Jumbo Burrito, Bean & Cheese Frozen Dinners & Entrees High in sodium — 69% DV per serving High in saturated fat — 40% DV per serving 247kcal 8.8Protein 7.4Fat 35.3Carbs Gartner Studios, Inc. Cake Mix Cake, Cookie & Cupcake Mixes 392kcal 3.9Protein 7.8Fat 78.4Carbs Reynaldo's Mexican Food Manufacturer Inc. Carnitas Burrito Mexican Dinner Mixes High in sodium — 47% DV per serving 246kcal 12.0Protein 7.0Fat 32.4Carbs Kowalski Companies Inc. Sausage & Pepperoni Pizza Pizza High in sodium — 47% DV per serving High in saturated fat — 40% DV per serving 238kcal 15.4Protein 12.3Fat 15.4Carbs First World Imports Spiced Bun, Spiced Breads & Buns 340kcal 8Protein 4Fat 62Carbs Maroma Foods, Inc. Mini Mozzarella Cheese Pepperoni Rolls Other Deli 340kcal 12.8Protein 14.9Fat 42.5Carbs Reynaldo's Mexican Food Manufacturer Inc. Hand Made Carnitas Jumbo Pork Burrito, Jumbo Pork Burrito Prepared Wraps and Burittos High in sodium — 57% DV per serving High in saturated fat — 35% DV per serving 231kcal 8.6Protein 9.0Fat 27.4Carbs Bridgford Foods Corporation Pepperoni Snack Sticks, Pepperoni Other Snacks 524kcal 23.8Protein 42.9Fat 0Carbs Nardone Brothers Baking Co. Inc. Pizza, Whole Grain, Pepperoni, 6" Savoury Bakery Products High in sodium — 28% DV per serving High in saturated fat — 40% DV per serving 237kcal 12.2Protein 12.2Fat 19.2Carbs Nardone Brothers Baking Co. Inc. Pizza, Whole Grain, Pepperoni, 8" Wedge Savoury Bakery Products High in sodium — 27% DV per serving High in saturated fat — 45% DV per serving 246kcal 13.4Protein 13.4Fat 18.3Carbs

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.