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E321 Butylated hydroxytoluene

BHT

Origin:
Synthetic antioxidant.

Function & characteristics:
Anti-oxidant in fats and fatty products to prevent rancidity.

Products:
Wide range of fat-containing products.

Acceptable Daily Intake:
Up to 0.3 mg/kg body weight.

Side effects:
BHT can cause liver damage in high concentrations; (pseudo-) allergic symptoms have also been reported. In some people with a hereditary isomer of a specific liver enzyme it can cause migraine. Due to the side effects, the EU has restricted its use; thus, the number of BHT-containing products will decline in the next few years.

Dietary restrictions:
E321 can normally be consumed by all religious groups, vegans and vegetarians.