E320 · Butylated hydroxyanisole (BHA)
- WHO
- Safe in moderation
- FDA
- Safe in moderation
- EFSA
- Safe in moderation
- FSANZ
- Safe in moderation
- Japan
- Safe
- UK FSA
- Safe in moderation
- Health Canada
- Safe in moderation
What is E320?
BHA is a synthetic antioxidant used to prevent rancidity in fats, oils, and packaged foods like chips and baked goods, and in some cosmetics. It has attracted regulatory scrutiny: the U.S. National Toxicology Program lists BHA as 'reasonably anticipated to be a human carcinogen' based on animal studies, though EFSA and FDA still permit its use within set limits. Because of these concerns, some manufacturers have voluntarily replaced BHA with alternative antioxidants.
Also appears on labels as: Butylated hydroxyanisole, BHA, 2- and 3-tert-butyl-4-hydroxyanisole, tert-butylhydroxyanisole, E320, E 320, E-320, Antioxidant BHA, Food antioxidant BHA, BHA preservative, Butilintas hidroksianizolas, Butilhidroksianizols.
What the evidence says
- Classified as reasonably anticipated to be a human carcinogen by the US National Toxicology Program, based on animal studies at high doses.
- EFSA and FDA maintain acceptable daily intake limits; typical dietary exposure is generally within these limits.
- Some individuals report skin or allergic-type sensitivity.
Frequently asked questions
Is E320 safe?
Our overall verdict for E320 (Butylated hydroxyanisole (BHA)) is “Safe in moderation”, based on the most cautious of the major regulators’ positions — FDA: safe in moderation; WHO: safe in moderation; EFSA: safe in moderation; FSANZ: safe in moderation; Japan: safe; UK FSA: safe in moderation; Health Canada: safe in moderation.
Is E320 vegan, halal or gluten-free?
According to our ingredient data for Butylated hydroxyanisole (BHA) — vegan: yes, vegetarian: yes, halal: yes, kosher: yes, gluten-free: yes, dairy-free: yes. Manufacturing sources can vary between products; check the label if it matters to you.
What is E320 and why is it used?
BHA is a synthetic antioxidant used to prevent rancidity in fats, oils, and packaged foods like chips and baked goods, and in some cosmetics. It has attracted regulatory scrutiny: the U.S. National Toxicology Program lists BHA as 'reasonably anticipated to be a human carcinogen' based on animal studies, though EFSA and FDA still permit its use within set limits. Because of these concerns, some manufacturers have voluntarily replaced BHA with alternative antioxidants.
Does E320 contain allergens?
No known allergens are recorded for Butylated hydroxyanisole (BHA), though some people report sensitivity (Occasional reports of skin sensitivity, mainly from cosmetic exposure.).
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This page summarises publicly available regulatory assessments and research. It is general information, not medical advice. Sources: EFSA, FDA, WHO and the studies linked above.