BHA & BHT

BHA & BHT

Let's Superpower Our Kids

10% off discount code when you subscribe

What Are BHA and BHT?

BHT and BHA are synthetic (man-made) antioxidants. they are used in foods and personal care products to increase shelf life. They are banned in europe.

BHT and BHA are synthetic (man-made) antioxidants. Antioxidants found in nature are far superior and are plentiful with a nutrient-dense diet of whole foods. They may have beneficial properties (as some “studies” show) but this is controversial at best. Beware of BHT supplements.

BHA and BHT are artificial additives that are ubiquitous in processed foods. They are well-known preservatives that give food (particularly food with fat) long shelf lives. They are also flavor enhancers that promote overeating and addiction.

The FDA has approved BHT and BHA in limited quantities, however, BHT and BHA consumed in large quantities is well-known to be unhealthy, and these additives are banned in Europe. We don’t believe that any banned substance, no matter how small the amount, should be eaten. Why take the risk?

How Is It Harmful?

BHT and BHA are known endocrine disruptors. In other words, they affect our hormones. Hormones are chemical messengers that orchestrate billions upon billions of reactions within our body. These novel synthetic molecules may disrupt this wondrous communication. 

BHT and BHA are also carcinogens linked to many different types of cancer. Even if there are “studies” and “well-intended” organizations that say it is okay to consume them or that they are not harmful, we believe it is best to avoid them as much as possible.

Potential Health Impacts and Studies

BHT and BHA are also linked to reproductive disruption and low testosterone as well as organ toxicity. The European Commission on Endocrine Disruption has also listed BHA as a Category 1 priority substance, based on evidence that it interferes with hormone function. Despite this, these chemicals are still allowed in our food. The International Agency for Research on Cancer classifies BHA as a possible human carcinogen.

Products With BHA and BHT

BHA and BHT are found everywhere, particularly in processed foods, gum, snack foods (potato chips/nuts), preserved meats, beer, butter, lard, vegetable oils, and cereals. They are also found in numerous cosmetic products, such as lotions, perfumes, and lipsticks.