Ingredient Guide

🇬🇧 BHA and BHT on Food Labels in UK

BHA and BHT is permitted with restrictions and maximum levels in United Kingdom: declare as "butylated hydroxyanisole (E320) / 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 United Kingdom, BHA and BHT is regulated under Retained EU Law & UK FIC as a food preservative. UK retains EU authorization with same maximum levels. Declaration required. UK is conducting post-Brexit independent reviews of some additives.

What You Must Include

Declare as "butylated hydroxyanisole (E320) / 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) / 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) / butylated hydroxytoluene (E321)"

"butylated hydroxyanisole (E320) / butylated hydroxytoluene (E321)" in ingredient list

Full ingredient line: "Ingredients: ... butylated hydroxyanisole (E320) / 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 UK rules.

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Frequently Asked Questions

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

Declare as "butylated hydroxyanisole (E320) / butylated hydroxytoluene (E321)" in the ingredient list. UK retains EU authorization with same maximum levels. Declaration required. UK is conducting post-Brexit independent reviews of some additives.

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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