What is E321? Butylated Hydroxytoluene Explained
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E321 is Butylated Hydroxytoluene — a antioxidant (synthetic) used in cooking oils, snack foods.
What is E321 (Butylated Hydroxytoluene)?
E321 is Butylated Hydroxytoluene (BHT), 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 Hydroxytoluene is one of the better-known food additives and appears regularly in label-reading guides and dietary discussions. Like every E-number, E321 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 E321 found?
E321 (Butylated Hydroxytoluene) 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: BHT
Is E321 safe?
E321 is authorised in the EU and UK but carries genuine concerns. For most people consuming Butylated Hydroxytoluene 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 Hydroxytoluene — status Some concerns.
Check the calorie content of foods containing E321. If you’re pregnant, see our pregnancy food safety guide. Taking supplements? Check drug and supplement interactions.
Related to E321 (Butylated Hydroxytoluene)
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Food Sensitivity Test
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Additive-Free Cookbook
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E321 FAQs
What is E321 in food?
E321 is Butylated Hydroxytoluene (BHT) — a antioxidant (synthetic) used in cooking oils, snack foods.
Is E321 safe to eat?
E321 is authorised in the EU and UK but carries genuine concerns. For most people consuming Butylated Hydroxytoluene in typical quantities, health effects are unlikely — but the caution flag reflects
Is E321 vegan?
E321 (Butylated Hydroxytoluene) is vegan. It is derived from synthetic, with no animal involvement in standard food production.
Is E321 halal?
E321 (Butylated Hydroxytoluene) 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