Saturday, March 17, 2012

BHT

A crystalline phenolic antioxidant, used to preserve fats and oils, especially in foods.
Phenolic: Of, relating to, containing, or derived from phenol.
Phenol: Also called carbolic acid a white crystalline soluble poisonous acidic derivative of benzene, used as an antiseptic and disinfectant and in the manufacture of resins, nylon, dyes, explosives, and pharmaceuticals.
Any of a class of weakly acidic organic compounds whose molecules contain one or more hydroxyl groups bound directly to a carbon atom in an aromatic ring
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BHA (butylated hydroxyanisole) and BHT (butylated hydroxytoluene) are preservatives added to a wide variety of processed foods to keep them from going rancid or changing flavor, odor, and color, especially those foods containing oil or shortening. Though widely used by food manufacturers, despite the fact that safe alternatives are available, many research studies indicate BHA and BHT are carcinogens.
The FDA considers these additives safe, but the World Health Organization’s International Agency for Research on Cancer considers BHA to be a possible carcinogen and it is listed as such by California State.

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