Where It Comes From
Packaged foods (cereals, snacks, baked goods, chewing gum), food packaging, some cosmetics/personal care items, and certain industrial products [1][3][4].
How You Are Exposed
Eating foods or chewing gum that contain BHA; skin or lip contact from cosmetics; small amounts can migrate from packaging into food; workers may inhale or touch it during manufacturing [1][3][4].
Why It Matters
IARC classifies BHA as possibly carcinogenic to humans (Group 2B); the U.S. NTP lists it as reasonably anticipated to be a human carcinogen based on animal studies showing stomach tumors and organ changes at high doses [1][2]. Regulators have set intake limits to reduce risk [3][4].
Who Is at Risk
Workers handling BHA; people who frequently eat high-fat, highly processed foods; infants and children (higher intake per body weight) [1][2][4].
How to Lower Your Exposure
Check ingredient lists and choose BHA-free foods and cosmetics; favor fresh and minimally processed foods; limit high-fat processed snacks; for workplaces, follow safety controls and protective equipment guidance [1][3][4].
References
- [1]IARC Monographs. Butylated hydroxyanisole (BHA), Group 2B. International Agency for Research on Cancer. https://monographs.iarc.who.int
- [2]NTP, Report on Carcinogens. Butylated Hydroxyanisole (BHA). National Toxicology Program. https://ntp.niehs.nih.gov/whatwestudy/assessments/roc
- [3]U.S. FDA. 21 CFR §172.110 — Butylated hydroxyanisole. https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-21/part-172/section-172.110
- [4]WHO/FAO JECFA. Evaluation of BHA (antioxidant). World Health Organization. https://inchem.org/documents/jecfa/jecmono/v35je02.htm