News Details

On 10 February 2026, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration initiated a new post-market safety evaluation of butylated hydroxyanisole (BHA), a synthetic antioxidant used in food and food-contact materials. The review will examine whether the substance continues to meet current safety standards based on the latest scientific evidence. To support this process, the agency has issued a Request for Information seeking updated data on use patterns, exposure, and toxicological information. 

Current Authorisation and Uses  

BHA (CAS No. 25013-16-5) has long been authorized for use in food. It was listed as Generally Recognized as Safe (GRAS) in 1958 and approved as a food additive in 1961. It is primarily used to prevent the oxidation of fats and oils and can be found in a variety of products such as breakfast cereals, frozen foods, baked goods, confectionery, and processed meat. Despite a reported reduction in use in recent years, it remains present in several packaged foods, including those marketed to children. 

Part of Wider FDA Review Program 

The reassessment has been identified as a priority under the FDA’s enhanced programme for the systematic post-market review of chemicals in the food supply, which was introduced in May 2025. BHA has also been the subject of long-standing scientific and public health discussions. The National Toxicology Program previously classified as “reasonably anticipated to be a human carcinogen” based on animal study findings. 

The FDA has stated that the outcome of the evaluation will determine whether existing uses of BHA remain permissible. This action forms part of a broader initiative to reassess food additives, food-contact substances, colour additives, and GRAS substances using a more transparent and science-driven approach. Further reviews of other additives are expected under the same framework. 

For more information about the Request for Information on BHA, visit List of Select Chemicals in the Food Supply Under FDA Review | FDA.