E320 · Antioxidants

BHA

High risk antioxidantcarcinogen

Possible carcinogen (IARC 2B); endocrine concerns.

Category: Antioxidants
Acceptable daily intake: 1 mg/kg body weight/day (EFSA)
Vegan: Yes
Vegetarian: Yes

What it is

Butylated hydroxyanisole (E320), commonly known as BHA, is a synthetic antioxidant. It is extremely effective at preventing fats and oils from oxidizing (going rancid), extending the shelf life of greasy foods by months or even years.

How it is used in food

An extremely effective synthetic antioxidant that prevents oils and fats from going rancid, even after baking or frying.

Commonly found in

Chewing gum
Dehydrated potato flakes
Cereals (often sprayed onto the packaging liner)
Cosmetics and lip balms

Health and safety

Suspected endocrine disruptor; high doses caused tumours in animal forestomachs (an organ humans do not have).

BHA is one of the most controversial food additives still in use. The International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) classifies it as Group 2B (possibly carcinogenic to humans).

Suspected carcinogen

general population · evidence: suspected

Classified by the IARC as a Group 2B possible human carcinogen based on animal studies showing it causes forestomach tumors in rats. It is also listed under California Prop 65 as a known carcinogen.

IARC Monograph on BHA

Endocrine disruption

general population · evidence: suspected

Some studies suggest BHA may act as an endocrine disruptor, interfering with hormone function.

Considered safe at current permitted levels, but controversial; some health advocacy groups advise avoiding it.

Regulatory status

Region	Status	Notes
Australia & New Zealand FSANZ	Permitted	Permitted.
European Union EFSA / European Commission	Permitted	Authorised for food use under EU regulations (Annex II).
United States FDA (Food and Drug Administration)	Permitted	GRAS, but subject to Prop 65 warnings in California due to cancer risk. “California Prop 65 Warning Required”

Identification on labels

E-number: E320

Alternatives to this additive

E306: Tocopherols — Natural Vitamin E extracts that provide similar fat-protecting benefits without the cancer risks.
E392: Rosemary extract — A natural, plant-based antioxidant.

How it is made

It is a petrochemical derivative synthesized by reacting 4-methoxyphenol with isobutylene.

Synthesis — Derived from petrochemicals via the reaction of 4-methoxyphenol and isobutylene.

Worth knowing

BHA is highly stable at high temperatures, making it essential for preserving fried snack foods.

Conclusion

Despite the IARC classification and a California Prop 65 warning, regulatory agencies like the FDA and EFSA still permit its use in very small amounts, arguing that the exposure levels in human diets are far below the doses that cause tumors in rats. Nonetheless, due to consumer pressure, many companies are voluntarily phasing it out in favor of natural antioxidants like Vitamin E (E306).

References

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Entry last reviewed 2026-07-28.

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