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Ingredient Guide

🇨🇦 BHA and BHT on Food Labels in Canada

BHA and BHT is permitted with proper declaration in Canada: declare as "BHA or BHT, with full name" in the ingredient list.

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What the Rule Is

Synthetic antioxidant preservatives used to prevent rancidity in fats, oils, and fat-containing foods. In Canada, BHA and BHT is regulated under FDR & Safe Food for Canadians Regulations as a food preservative. Permitted in Food and Drug Regulations with maximum levels. Must be declared by name in ingredient list.

What You Must Include
  • Declare as "BHA or BHT, with full name" in the ingredient list
  • Declare with functional class: "preservative" and E-number E320/E321
  • Review all compound ingredients for hidden sources
  • Cross-check all compound ingredients and sub-ingredients for hidden sources
Common Violations
  • Incorrect or missing declaration name — must use "BHA or BHT, with full name"
  • Using an ambiguous or abbreviated name that does not identify BHA and BHT
  • Omitting the E-number E320/E321 where required
  • Not updating the label after recipe changes involving this ingredient
  • Failing to check compound ingredients for hidden BHA and BHT content
Examples: Compliant vs Non-Compliant

Compliant Examples

"preservative: BHA or BHT, with full name"
"BHA or BHT, with full name" in ingredient list
Full ingredient line: "Ingredients: ... BHA or BHT, with full name ..."

Non-Compliant Examples

Using a synonym (BHT, E320) without the approved declaration name
Ingredient list with "BHA and BHT" without functional class or E-number
"Natural [ingredient category]" without specific name where specific name is required
How LabelGuard Checks This

LabelGuard scans your label for BHA and BHT and all its common names (BHA, BHT, E320, E321) to verify correct declaration, required E-numbers, and proper functional class labeling under Canada rules.

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Frequently Asked Questions

How must BHA and BHT be declared on food labels in Canada?

Declare as "BHA or BHT, with full name" in the ingredient list. Permitted in Food and Drug Regulations with maximum levels. Must be declared by name in ingredient list.

What are the common synonyms and hidden sources of BHA and BHT?

BHA and BHT may appear under the following names: BHA, BHT, E320, E321, Butylated hydroxyanisole, Butylated hydroxytoluene. Common hidden sources include: Crackers, Cereals, Potato chips, Vegetable oils, Chewing gum, Nuts, Frozen convenience foods.

Is BHA and BHT banned or restricted in any market?

Restricted with maximum levels in: EU, UK.

Regulation Sources

Last updated: 2026-04-01

Disclaimer: This information is for guidance only and does not constitute legal advice. Always consult official regulations and seek professional legal advice for specific compliance questions.

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