E321

E321: BHT

Moderate concernFunction: antioxidant

What is E321?

E321 (BHT) is a antioxidant used in processed foods.

What the research says

Synthetic antioxidant with mixed evidence from animal studies. EFSA set an acceptable daily intake of 0.25 mg per kg of body weight.

Regulatory status

European UnionApproved
United StatesApproved

Questions people ask

Is E321 (BHT) safe?

Synthetic antioxidant with mixed evidence from animal studies. EFSA set an acceptable daily intake of 0.25 mg per kg of body weight.

Why is E321 added to food?

It is used as a antioxidant.

Does E321 make a food ultra-processed?

Not on its own. E321 is not one of the cosmetic additives the NOVA system uses to identify ultra-processed foods.

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