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Ingredient Guide

🇪🇺 BHA and BHT on Food Labels in EU

BHA and BHT is permitted with restrictions and maximum levels in European Union: declare as "butylated hydroxyanisole (E320) and/or butylated hydroxytoluene (E321)" 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 European Union, BHA and BHT is regulated under FIC Regulation 1169/2011 as a food preservative. Both authorized under Regulation (EC) 1333/2008 with strict maximum levels. BHA listed as possible carcinogen by IARC. EU permits BHA at max 100–200mg/kg fat depending on food category. Both must be declared with functional class "antioxidant" and E-number.

What You Must Include
  • Declare as "butylated hydroxyanisole (E320) and/or butylated hydroxytoluene (E321)" 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 "butylated hydroxyanisole (E320) and/or butylated hydroxytoluene (E321)"
  • 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: butylated hydroxyanisole (E320) and/or butylated hydroxytoluene (E321)"
"butylated hydroxyanisole (E320) and/or butylated hydroxytoluene (E321)" in ingredient list
Full ingredient line: "Ingredients: ... butylated hydroxyanisole (E320) and/or butylated hydroxytoluene (E321) ..."

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 EU rules.

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Frequently Asked Questions

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

Declare as "butylated hydroxyanisole (E320) and/or butylated hydroxytoluene (E321)" in the ingredient list. Both authorized under Regulation (EC) 1333/2008 with strict maximum levels. BHA listed as possible carcinogen by IARC. EU permits BHA at max 100–200mg/kg fat depending on food category. Both must be declared with functional class "antioxidant" and E-number.

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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