BHT

BHT, or butylated hydroxytoluene, is a man-made chemical compound. It is created through a chemical process in laboratories.

Manufacturers add BHT to foods as an antioxidant. This helps prevent fats and oils in food from spoiling or going rancid, which can change their taste and smell. It is often found in cereals, snack foods, and chewing gum.

The FDA permits BHT as a food additive. Scientific bodies like JECFA and EFSA have evaluated BHT and determined an acceptable daily intake. While some older animal studies at very high doses raised questions about its safety, current scientific consensus and regulatory evaluations consider it safe at the levels permitted in food.