Used As An Anti-oxidant

Butylated hydroxyanisole, commonly known as BHA, is a synthetic chemical compound. It is produced through a chemical process and is primarily used as an antioxidant to prevent fats and and oils in food from spoiling.

BHA is added to foods to slow down the spoilage process, specifically to prevent fats and oils from becoming rancid. It is often found in snack foods like popcorn and peanuts, cereals, baked goods, and some dips and seasoned products.

BHA is an FDA-approved food additive in the United States. JECFA has evaluated BHA and set an acceptable daily intake. The International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) classifies BHA as possibly carcinogenic to humans (Group 2B), meaning there is some evidence of cancer risk but it is not conclusive. However, the FDA considers BHA safe at the levels currently used in food.