What is E320? Butylated Hydroxyanisole Explained
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E320 is Butylated Hydroxyanisole — a antioxidant (synthetic) used in cooking oils, snack foods.
What is E320 (Butylated Hydroxyanisole)?
E320 is Butylated Hydroxyanisole (BHA), a food additive classified as a antioxidant that prevent oxidation and rancidity. A antioxidant (synthetic) used in cooking oils, snack foods. You'll find it in cooking oils, snack foods, processed meats and many other packaged foods. Butylated Hydroxyanisole is one of the better-known food additives and appears regularly in label-reading guides and dietary discussions. Like every E-number, E320 has been authorised for use in food following an EFSA safety evaluation — though authorisation doesn't mean concern-free, as the safety section below explains.
Where is E320 found?
E320 (Butylated Hydroxyanisole) is found in cooking oils, snack foods, processed meats, nut butters, frozen foods, cereals.
- cooking oils
- snack foods
- processed meats
- nut butters
- frozen foods
- cereals
Also known as: BHA
Is E320 safe?
E320 is authorised in the EU and UK but carries genuine concerns. For most people consuming Butylated Hydroxyanisole in typical quantities, health effects are unlikely — but the caution flag reflects either active scientific debate, mandatory warning labels, allergen status, or conditions attached to its authorisation.
EFSA opinion: Butylated Hydroxyanisole — status Some concerns.
Check the calorie content of foods containing E320. If you’re pregnant, see our pregnancy food safety guide. Taking supplements? Check drug and supplement interactions.
Related to E320 (Butylated Hydroxyanisole)
Products relevant to this additive and your dietary choices
Food Sensitivity Test
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Additive-Free Cookbook
Whole-food recipes without additives that carry caution notices.
E320 FAQs
What is E320 in food?
E320 is Butylated Hydroxyanisole (BHA) — a antioxidant (synthetic) used in cooking oils, snack foods.
Is E320 safe to eat?
E320 is authorised in the EU and UK but carries genuine concerns. For most people consuming Butylated Hydroxyanisole in typical quantities, health effects are unlikely — but the caution flag reflects
Is E320 vegan?
E320 (Butylated Hydroxyanisole) is vegan. It is derived from synthetic, with no animal involvement in standard food production.
Is E320 halal?
E320 (Butylated Hydroxyanisole) is halal. It is derived from synthetic, which involves no haram sources.
Related Antioxidants additives
Also check: safe for cats? · safe for dogs? · calorie checker · medication interactions
Data: Open Food Facts (ODbL) · EFSA