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E320AntioxidantElevated concern
Butylated Hydroxyanisole
In plain words
The short version
A synthetic antioxidant (BHA) used in fats, oils, and packaged foods.
Why we flag it
A synthetic antioxidant that stops fats going rancid. It works well, but it's listed as a possible human carcinogen based on animal studies — debated at the low levels used in food. That open question is why we flag it.
Safety profile
ADI of 0.5 mg/kg body weight. Classified by the IARC as 'possibly carcinogenic to humans' (Group 2B) based on rodent studies showing forestomach tumors at high doses. The relevance to humans is debated since humans lack a forestomach. Some jurisdictions are progressively reducing permitted levels.
The detail
Educational information only. Not medical or dietary advice.