Is BHT toxic?

Is BHT toxic?

BHT is accused of being an endocrine disruptor and of having toxic effects on the liver, kidneys and lungs at extreme doses, by ingestion. BHT is also suspected of having a potential for bioaccumulation in aquatic species.

What does BHT stand for in food?

butylated hydroxytoluene
BHT (butylated hydroxytoluene) is a lab-made chemical that is added to foods as a preservative. People also use it as medicine. BHT is used to treat genital herpes and acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS).

How many methyl groups are present in a molecule of BHT butylated hydroxytoluene?

Butylated Hydroxytoluene is an organic chemical composed of 4-methylphenol modified with tert-butyl groups at positions 2 and 6.

What are the side effects of BHT?

Health and Environmental Hazards Long-term exposure to high doses of BHT is toxic in mice and rats, causing liver, thyroid and kidney problems and affecting lung function and blood coagulation [4]. BHT can act as a tumour promoter in certain situations [5].

Is BHT a safe ingredient?

Recognizing the low concentration at which this ingredient is currently used in cosmetic formulations, it was concluded that BHT is safe as used in cosmetic formulations.

What is BHT and is it safe to eat?

Butylated hydroxytoluene (BHT) is a chemical cousin to BHA that is also listed as “generally recognized as safe.” It, too, is added to food as a preservative. The two compounds act synergistically and are often used together. BHT is not a listed carcinogen, but some data have shown that it does cause cancer in animals.

What is BHT made from?

BHT is a synthetically aromatic organic compound derived from the reaction of 4-methoxyphenol and isobutylene, catalyzed by sulphuric acid. It was patented in 1947. BHT chemical structure.

Is BHT banned?

Both BHA and BHT are banned from foods in Australia, Canada, New Zealand, Japan and throughout Europe. In the U.S., it’s also used to enhance texture of soft white breads, including hamburger buns at McDonald’s and Burger King.

What foods have BHT in them?

Processed foods most likely to contain BHT include chewing gum, active dry yeast, frozen convenience foods, prepared cereal products, prepared snacks, dried and processed meat, potato flakes, enriched rice products and shortening.

Why is Mountain Dew banned in the UK?

Mountain Dew Mountain Dew is the American soft drink banned in Japan and parts of Europe because it until recently contained a flame retardant.